1893 Handwritten Transcription of Thomas Hood’s Romantic “Sonnet For the 14th of February”
12038On offer is a testament to true love on Valentine’s Day in the late 19th century. This 14 line sonnet was handwritten by an unknown transcriptionist, presumably for his Valentine. He has written out British poet Thomas Hood’s (1799-1845) Sonnet for the 14th of February, in a lovely cursive hand. He has dated the poem, February 14, 1893.
Our transcriptionist has made some changes to personalize the poem, such as changing the phrase “And to his mistress dear his hopes convey” to “And to his dearest one his hopes convey” (Line 5). The poem is credited to “Tom Hood (modified)” and signed with the initials FHI.
This poem’s biggest flaw is one of its greatest assets. It is clear from the way the piece of paper has ripped at all of its fold lines, that the recipient of this poem kept it near and dear for a great many years. The paper on which the poem is written is in very poor condition. It has been taped back together with clear tape, many years ago. The tape has browned and become one with the paper. Sadly the way it was taped horizontally has obscured lines 3 and 13. The remainder of the poem is very legible.Please don't hesitate to contact us for more information or to request photos. (Kindly include the SKU, listed on this page above the price, in your e-mail so we can more easily answer your questions.)
