Death, Death, and More Death

Coming out of all the tragedies that Mary Sidney Herbert went through, it only makes sense for her to go to writing and translating as an outlet. She lost a brother, that she loved dearly, who was a writer and died before he could actually finish most of his work. She clung to his legacy because it was what she had left to hold onto. Anyone, after both of her parents and one child died, would look for some sort of outlet to channel their mourning and crazy, strong emotions.

Also, it is no surprise that a tragedy like death can cause people to find solace in their religious faith. People hold on to their faith incredibly tightly in times of trouble. In O, Sidney talks about God and her trust in him. She talks as though she is lost, and she is aware that she is, but tells that she has faith that God will protect her and do right by her. When there are troubles Sidney tells the world, "my life lie naked in my hand,/To every chance exposed!/Should I forget what thou dost me command?/No, no, I will not stray" as a proclaimation of her faith in The Lord. Even when she is vulnerable, as she is when all of the deaths occur, Sidney makes sure that her faith is steadfast. Writing these ideas down, and publishing them, is a way of keeping yourself to your word. Now that these words were out in the world Sidney knew she would have to keep them and keep faith.