These Is My Words: The Diary of Sarah Agnes Prine, 1881-1901, Arizona Territories (Sarah Agnes Prine, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Nancy E. Turner's "These Is My Words" presents a fictionalized diary purportedly written by Sarah Agnes Prine, a young woman living in the Arizona Territories between 1881 and 1901. The novel follows Sarah's life as she navigates the harsh realities of frontier life, exploring themes of survival, resilience, love, loss, and the changing role of women in the American West.

The narrative unfolds through Sarah's diary entries, revealing her experiences as a wife, mother, and member of a struggling homesteading family. Her husband, Caleb Prine, is a strong but often stubborn and impractical man, focused on achieving prosperity through mining and cattle ranching. Their relationship is a central focus, showcasing both their deep love and the frequent strains placed upon it by their isolated existence and Caleb's often reckless choices.

Initially, the diary focuses on Sarah's adjustment to the rugged Arizona landscape and the challenges of establishing a home. She chronicles the arduous labor of daily life – farming, preserving food, managing the household, and caring for their children. Sarah possesses a sharp wit and remarkable fortitude, detailing her resilience in the face of hardship, including natural disasters like droughts and floods, and the ever-present danger of wildlife and illness. She meticulously records births, deaths, and the day-to-day events of her community, offering a vivid portrayal of pioneer life.

As the years progress, the diary reveals deeper conflicts. Caleb's stubbornness and risky ventures lead to financial difficulties and emotional turmoil. Their relationship is tested by loss, suspicion, and societal pressures. Sarah's own aspirations and strength of character are gradually revealed, contrasting sharply with the limited opportunities afforded to women at the time. Her unwavering dedication to her family and her quiet acts of defiance against patriarchal norms become increasingly evident.

The overarching theme is Sarah’s journey of self-discovery. Through her experiences, she discovers inner strength and resilience, ultimately finding a sense of purpose and independence amidst the constraints of her environment. The diary also serves as a powerful commentary on the challenges faced by women in the American West, highlighting their contributions and struggles in an often unforgiving and male-dominated society. "These Is My Words" isn't simply a historical narrative; it's a testament to the indomitable spirit of a woman who shaped her own destiny within the confines of her time and place. The story ultimately offers a poignant reflection on the price of survival, the strength of the human spirit, and the enduring power of love amidst adversity.