Emily's talent for writing is already evident in her early letters, which contain descriptions that go far beyond an ordinary teenager's ability to recreate reality on paper. But despite this, these letters are also filled with very normal teenage anxiety about her looks and popularity, about which Emily already had serious doubts which she covered over with humor and exaggeration.

"I am growing handsome very fast indeed! I expect I shall be the belle of Amherst when I reach my 17th year. I don't doubt that I shall have perfect crowds of admirers at that age. Then how I shall delight to make them await my bidding, and with what delight shall I witness their suspense while I make my final decision. But away with my nonsense."