The Power of Sympathy, written by William Hill Brown and published in 1789, is recognized as the first American novel. This groundbreaking work delves into the complex web of human emotions, morality, and the societal norms of late 18th-century America. Presented in the epistolary format, the novel unfolds through a series of letters that expose the intimate thoughts and experiences of its characters. Central to the plot is the ill-fated love affair between Harrington and Harriot, whose relationship is marred by the revelations of hidden secrets and familial ties. As their story progresses, themes of seduction, betrayal, and the consequences of moral failings are meticulously explored. Brown's narrative serves as a moralistic critique, warning against the dangers of unchecked passion and the importance of virtue. The novel's emphasis on the power of sympathy and its ability to foster human connection and empathy is a reflection of the sentimental literary tradition of the time. The Power of Sympathy not only offers a compelling story but also provides insight into the social and cultural landscape of early America. It remains a significant piece of American literary history, celebrated for its pioneering approach to storytelling and its exploration of the human condition. This edition of The Power of Sympathy invites readers to engage with a seminal work that laid the foundation for American fiction, emphasizing the enduring relevance of its themes and its contribution to literary heritage.

The Power of Sympathy was the first American novel, published in Boston in January 1789. An epistolary novel, it tells the tragic story of the relationship of an orphan girl and a man of good family, with a dramatic twist and tragic ending. It was inspired by an actual scandal in the Apthorp family of Boston, the "Ophelia" and "Martin" related within the story. It was published anonymously, and there has been controversy over the authorship. For over a century his family kept the author's identity secret. Boston antiquarians eventually fixed upon the poet Sarah (Apthorp) Morton as the probable author, despite that she was the sister of the victim and married to the alleged seducer in the real-life scandal. In the autumn of 1894, after the edition used in this recording was published, William Hill Brown's niece broke the long silence and provided proofs that he was the author.