The disciples of Emily Dickinson
She grew up in a house near the center of Amherst, spending most of her days in the bedroom, writing poetry that would enthrall a nation after her death.

One hundred twenty-six years later, some Amherst residents remain captivated by Emily Dickinson. A Dec. 10 party was held at her house, the Emily Dickinson Homestead and Museum, complete with masks and a Dickinson reenactor. Multiple groups host regular poetry discussions, spending hours poring over her prose. Lois Kackley, who formed the Amherst chapter of the Emily Dickinson International Society, moved to the town because of her love for the poet.

Does their fandom border on cult-like tendencies? Fifth-generation Amherst resident and local blogger Larry Kelley admits that many in town are obsessed with Dickinson, but he thinks that's a natural reaction.

"I don't think it's strange in the least, I think she's a fascinating individual," he said. "Obviously she was ahead of her time."