Isabella Whitney

Isabella Whitney (c. 1546/48 – after 1624; fl. 1566–1600) was arguably the first female poet and professional woman writer in England. She is credited with being the first Englishwoman to have penned and published original secular poetry under her own name.

Quotes

  • Beware of fair and painted talk,
       Beware of flattering tongues:
    The Mermaids do pretend no good
       For all their pleasant songs.
    Some use the tears of crocodiles,
       Contrary to their heart:
    And if they cannot always weep,
       They wet their cheeks by art.
    • "The Admonition ... to all Young Gentlewomen, &c.", sts. 4–5. The Copy of a Letter (1567)
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