SAVE 15% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER || 3 FOR 2 PRINTS
SAVE 15% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER || 3 FOR 2 PRINTS
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OBVIOUS STATE BOOKS

Hope is The Thing

Collected Poems by Emily Dickinson
Illustrated by Evan Robertson

Hope is the Thing is an exquisite blend of poetic verse and visual storytelling. This edition captures Dickinson’s meticulous, revelatory poetry alongside Robertson's evocative illustrations that animate the reclusive poet's introspective world.

Through this carefully crafted collection, you're invited to experience Dickinson’s solitary yet hopeful dialogue with the future—her gift to those who take the time to understand the quiet wisdom in her words.

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Collected Works

What is it:  An illustrated edition of Emily Dickinson poems in a unified narrative.

Fun Fact: Dickinson had a very green thumb. She tended to flowers, vegetables and trees on the property and in her private greenhouse.

What Makes it Awesome: Emily Dickinson is often referred to as the Mother of American poetry, and she deserves the title. Like Frost, it's easy to miss some of the wonderful subtleties in her work when the meter carries you away.

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Illustrated Edition

"How can artwork live on the page with poetic text in a way that enhances it without upstaging it or undermining its ability to communicate? That was my main priority, and it informed everything about the visual approach.

The stark palette, the repetition of visual elements, and the balance of art and text all serve to drive the narrative forward. While there’s no “correct” way to visualize these works, I’ve chosen to focus on the broader themes rather than the literal narration of action. I wanted to create a seamless marriage of provocative visuals and punctuated language, both exploring the same idea in slightly different ways. The result, I hope, creates a uniquely illuminating and immersive experience for the reader, where the wisdom that the author and artist explore together are brought into sharper focus."

- Evan Robertson
Obvious State Cofounder & Illustrator

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Beautiful Typography

For this project, we selected Ogg—a luscious calligraphic serif typeface designed by Lucas Sharp. The design was inspired by the iconic hand lettering of twentieth century book designer and calligrapher Oscar Ogg. It captures the unique mix of calligraphic and typographic forms he achieved through his use of hand carved pen nibs. While Ogg is high contrast and dramatic, it remains refined and warm, which we think pairs perfectly with the art. 

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Emily Dickinson Art Prints

There are currently six art prints inspired by Emily Dickinson quotes available in the shop.

All of our art prints are currently 3 for 2!

Use Codes: 3PRINTS

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