Compositions and Poems, 1845-1846

The series consists of six compositions and four poems. Two of the compositions appear to be creative pieces. These two are entitled "Character of Queen Esther" and "A Visit to the Insane Asylum." The first describes the bravery of Queen Esther of the Jews. The second describes an attempted visit to an insane asylum in Concord, New Hampshire. The other compositions include "Great Effects from Small Causes," which describes many small events that changed the course of history. "Female Education" stresses the importance of a practical, "substantial" education for women as opposed to a "fashionable" one that focuses on singing, dancing, and other non-useful skills. "Early Rising" cites the benefits of waking up early in the morning. "Uncertainty of Earthly Things" states that money can't bring happiness. There are four poems entitled "One Compostion," "The Star of Bethlehem," "My Home," and "My Mother." The latter two poems indicate Putnam's homesickness.