Cavendish and Bradstreet are both clearly talented poets, but represent themselves in opposing fashions through their work. In Cavendish’s “The Poetess’s Hasty Resolution” I hear the voice of a woman who is proud of her art and who has a strong desire to share it with the world, “Reading my verses, I liked them so well, / Self-love did make my judgement to rebel.” (1-2). Reading Bradstreet’s “The Author to Her Book” I picture an anxious woman who fears imperfection and criticism, and yet somehow seems to come from a more honest place, “Who thee abroad, exposed to public view, / Made thee in rags, halting to th’ press to trudge, / Where errors were not lessened (all may judge).” (4-6). I don’t mean to slight Cavendish, however, Bradstreet’s poem is so relatable to almost any writer. When I write something that will be read by others, I stress to make it as “perfect” as possible in an attempt to avoid heavy criticism that I know will be taken much too personally, and understand quite well where Bradstreet is coming from. I do credit Cavendish for her bold statements of self certainty, though. It is possible to have confidence in one’s art while also feeling self conscious as it is judged by others. I suspect both Bradstreet and Cavendish experienced pride and doubt over their work, each preferring to share a different side for one reason or another.