FIFTY POEMS OF EMILY DICKINSON, VOL. ONE

[Editor's Note: The following is a combined review with FIFTY POEMS OF EMILY DICKINSON, VOL. 2.]--These 100 poems provide a welcome introduction to Dickinson's writing or an enjoyable performance for those who know her work. The poems are read by several well-known actresses, who each perform the poems thoughtfully and carefully. Meryl Streep's readings are the most enjoyable; the bell-like quality of her voice and her perfect diction are marvelous. The pleasant recording works for both meditation and relaxation, or the sheer pleasure of hearing Dickinson's poems read aloud by well-trained voices. The musical selections in the background are unnecessary but bland enough to be untroubling. R.F. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB / MAR 03]