The Southern Literary Messenger, Vol. II., No. 5, April, 1836

"The Southern Literary Messenger, Vol. II., No. 5, April, 1836" by Various is a literary magazine published in the early 19th century. It features a collection of essays, letters, poetry, and potentially other forms of literary expression, showcasing a variety of voices and themes from that period. The publication appears to engage with philosophical discussions on God's providence, social commentary on marriage and relationships, and the literary reflections inspired by contemporary writers and events. The beginning of this volume introduces various pieces, including an unpublished essay by Benjamin Franklin on divine providence and an entertaining letter from Anthony Afterwit, which humorously depicts the struggles of maintaining a household and dealing with societal expectations in a marital context. Additionally, there is a letter from Celia Single, criticizing portrayals of women in literature, and a poem reflecting on the beauty of evening stars. These opening selections suggest that the magazine not only aims to entertain but also to provoke thought and discussion about moral, social, and literary issues relevant to its readership.