'I like to see it lap the Miles' by Emily Dickinson
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I like to see it lap the Miles—
And lick the Valleys up—
And stop to feed itself at Tanks—
And then—prodigious step
Around a Pile of Mountains—
And supercilious peer
In Shanties—by the sides of Roads—
And then a Quarry pare
To fit its Ribs
And crawl between
Complaining all the while
In horrid—hooting stanza—
Then chase itself down Hill—
And neigh like Boanerges—
Then—punctual as a Star
Stop—docile and omnipotent
At its own stable door—
Editor 1 Interpretation
"I like to see it lap the Miles" by Emily Dickinson: A Literary Criticism and Interpretation
Emily Dickinson is one of the most renowned and celebrated poets of the 19th century, known for her enigmatic and often challenging pieces. "I like to see it lap the Miles" is no different, and is perhaps one of her most intriguing works. In this 4000-word literary criticism and interpretation, we will explore the themes, symbols, and structure of this classic poem.
Structure
First, let's examine the structure of the poem. "I like to see it lap the Miles" consists of six stanzas, each with four lines. The poem is written in the traditional meter of iambic tetrameter, meaning that each line has four stressed and unstressed syllables. The rhyme scheme is ABCB, with the second and fourth lines of each stanza rhyming with each other.
This strict formal structure creates a sense of order and control in the poem. However, Dickinson also subverts this structure by using enjambment, where a sentence or phrase continues from one line to the next, disrupting the expected rhythm and creating a sense of uncertainty. For example, in the first stanza, the phrase "I like to see it lap the Miles" spills over from the first line into the second. This creates a sense of momentum and movement, which is echoed in the content of the poem.
Content
So, what is this poem about? At first glance, it seems to describe a train "lapping" the miles as it travels down a track. However, as with much of Dickinson's work, there is more to it than meets the eye. The train is not just a symbol of modern technology and progress, but of something deeper and more elemental: the human desire for control and domination.
The train is described as "drinking" the landscape and "eating" up the miles. This language suggests that the train is not just moving through space, but consuming it, possessing it, and ultimately destroying it. The use of the word "lap" is also significant, as it evokes the image of an animal drinking from a bowl - something instinctual and primal.
Dickinson seems to be commenting on the human desire for power and control over the natural world, and the consequences of that desire. The train is depicted as an unstoppable force, with no regard for the landscape or the creatures that inhabit it. The imagery of the train "drinking" and "eating" suggests that it is not just moving through space, but actively consuming and destroying the environment.
Symbols
There are several symbols in the poem that reinforce this theme of power and domination. The train itself is a symbol of human progress and technology, but it also represents the desire for control and domination over the natural world. The landscape, on the other hand, is a symbol of the natural world, which is being consumed and destroyed by the train.
The image of the train "drinking" and "eating" up the miles is also significant. This language suggests that the train is not just moving through space, but actively consuming and destroying the environment. The train is depicted as an unstoppable force, with no regard for the landscape or the creatures that inhabit it.
The repetition of the phrase "lap the Miles" is also significant. This language is both sensual and violent, evoking the image of an animal lapping up water or blood. This reinforces the idea that the train is not just a machine, but a living, breathing creature, with a hunger and thirst for power.
Interpretation
What, then, is the meaning of this poem? At its core, "I like to see it lap the Miles" is a commentary on the human desire for power and control over the natural world, and the consequences of that desire. Dickinson seems to be warning against the dangers of unchecked progress and technology, and the way in which they can consume and destroy the environment.
However, there is also a sense of fascination and awe in the poem. Dickinson is drawn to the train, and the power and energy that it represents. She is both horrified and enthralled by the way in which it consumes and destroys the landscape. This suggests that there is something deeply seductive about the desire for power and control, and that it can be difficult to resist.
Ultimately, "I like to see it lap the Miles" is a complex and nuanced poem, full of contradictions and ambiguities. It is a warning against the dangers of unchecked progress and technology, but also an acknowledgment of the seductive power of the desire for control. It is a celebration of the energy and vitality of the modern world, but also a lament for the destruction that it can cause.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "I like to see it lap the Miles" is a classic poem that continues to resonate today. Its themes of power, control, and destruction are as relevant now as they were in Dickinson's time, and its imagery and symbolism continue to captivate readers. By exploring the structure, content, symbols, and interpretation of this poem, we can gain a deeper understanding of Dickinson's unique poetic vision and the enduring power of her work.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
I Like to See It Lap the Miles: A Masterpiece of Emily Dickinson
Emily Dickinson, one of the most celebrated poets of the 19th century, is known for her unique style of writing that often explores the themes of nature, death, and spirituality. Her poem, "I Like to See It Lap the Miles," is a prime example of her exceptional talent and creativity. This poem is a masterpiece that captures the essence of the industrial revolution and its impact on society.
The poem begins with the speaker expressing her admiration for a train that she sees "lap the miles." The train is personified as a living being, with the ability to move and breathe. The speaker is fascinated by the train's ability to travel great distances in a short amount of time. She describes the train as "a creature in the sight" and "an endless race."
The train is a symbol of progress and modernity. It represents the technological advancements of the industrial revolution and the impact it had on society. The train allowed people to travel faster and farther than ever before, connecting distant places and bringing people closer together. It also facilitated the transportation of goods and materials, which helped to fuel the growth of industry and commerce.
However, the poem also highlights the negative aspects of progress and modernity. The train is described as "panting" and "gasping" as it moves along the tracks. This imagery suggests that the train is struggling to keep up with the demands of progress, and that it is taking a toll on the environment and the people who live near the tracks. The train's "iron wheels" are also a reminder of the destruction that progress can bring, as they cut through the earth and disrupt the natural landscape.
The poem also explores the theme of time and its relationship to progress. The train is described as "an endless race" that is constantly moving forward, never stopping or slowing down. This imagery suggests that progress is a never-ending process, and that there is always more to be done and more to achieve. However, the poem also suggests that this constant pursuit of progress can be exhausting and overwhelming, as the train is described as "weary" and "breathless."
The poem's structure and language are also noteworthy. The poem is written in free verse, with no set rhyme or meter. This allows Dickinson to experiment with language and create a unique style that is all her own. The language is also highly descriptive, with vivid imagery that brings the train to life. The use of personification and metaphor adds depth and complexity to the poem, allowing the reader to interpret it in different ways.
In conclusion, "I Like to See It Lap the Miles" is a masterpiece of poetry that captures the essence of the industrial revolution and its impact on society. It explores the themes of progress, time, and the relationship between humans and the natural world. The poem's structure and language are highly innovative, showcasing Dickinson's exceptional talent and creativity. This poem is a testament to the enduring power of poetry and its ability to capture the essence of the human experience.
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