'Opinion is a flitting thing' by Emily Dickinson
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Opinion is a flitting thing,
But Truth, outlasts the Sun—
If then we cannot own them both—
Possess the oldest one—
Edited by Peter Carter
Editor 1 Interpretation
Opinion is a flitting thing: A literary criticism and interpretation
Introduction
Opinion is a flitting thing, But Truth, outlasts the Sun - If then we cannot own them both - Possess the oldest one -
These are the opening lines of Emily Dickinson's poem "Opinion is a flitting thing". In this poem, Dickinson explores the idea that opinions are fleeting and unreliable, while truth endures. The poem also suggests that it is better to hold onto the oldest version of the truth, rather than the most recent opinion or belief.
In this literary criticism, I will analyze the poem and provide an interpretation of its meaning. I will explore the themes, imagery, and language used by Dickinson, as well as the historical context of the poem.
Background
Emily Dickinson was an American poet who lived in the 19th century. She was known for her reclusive lifestyle and unconventional poetry style, which often included unconventional punctuation and capitalization. Dickinson's poetry was not widely published during her lifetime, but after her death, her sister discovered hundreds of poems in her room and had them published.
"Opinion is a flitting thing" was written sometime in the mid-19th century. The poem is one of Dickinson's shorter poems and is written in her typical style of short lines and unconventional punctuation.
Themes
The main theme of "Opinion is a flitting thing" is the idea that opinions are unreliable and that truth endures. Dickinson suggests that people should hold onto the oldest version of the truth, rather than the most recent opinion or belief.
The poem also explores the idea of the fleeting nature of opinions. Dickinson suggests that opinions are like a bird that flits from place to place, never staying in one spot for too long. By contrast, the truth is compared to the sun, which endures and outlasts everything else.
Finally, the poem also touches on the idea of possession. Dickinson suggests that people cannot possess both opinions and truth at the same time. Instead, people must choose which to hold onto, and in doing so, they must choose the oldest version of the truth.
Imagery
Dickinson uses several images in "Opinion is a flitting thing" to convey her message. The most prominent image is that of the bird. Dickinson compares opinions to a bird that flits from place to place, never staying in one spot for too long. This image suggests that opinions are fleeting and unreliable.
The second image Dickinson uses is that of the sun. She compares truth to the sun, which endures and outlasts everything else. This image suggests that truth is enduring and reliable.
Finally, Dickinson uses the image of possession. She suggests that people must choose which to possess, opinions or truth. This image implies that possession is important and that people must make a choice.
Language
Dickinson's use of language in "Opinion is a flitting thing" is simple but powerful. Her short lines and unconventional punctuation create a sense of urgency and immediacy. The repetition of the word "flitting" also emphasizes the fleeting nature of opinions.
Dickinson also uses contrast to highlight her message. She contrasts opinions with truth, the bird with the sun, and the newest version of the truth with the oldest. These contrasts make the poem more powerful and emphasize the importance of holding onto the truth.
Finally, Dickinson's use of the word "possess" is interesting. She suggests that people cannot possess both opinions and truth at the same time. Instead, people must choose which to hold onto. This use of the word "possess" highlights the importance of possession and suggests that it is a choice that people must make.
Interpretation
"Opinion is a flitting thing" is a powerful poem that explores the idea that opinions are unreliable and that truth endures. Dickinson suggests that people should hold onto the oldest version of the truth, rather than the most recent opinion or belief.
The poem also suggests that possession is important. People cannot possess both opinions and truth at the same time. Instead, people must choose which to hold onto. Dickinson's use of the word "possess" emphasizes the importance of this choice.
Finally, the poem explores the fleeting nature of opinions. Dickinson suggests that opinions are like a bird that flits from place to place, never staying in one spot for too long. By contrast, the truth is compared to the sun, which endures and outlasts everything else.
Conclusion
"Opinion is a flitting thing" is a powerful poem that explores the idea that opinions are unreliable and that truth endures. Dickinson's use of imagery, language, and contrast emphasizes the importance of holding onto the truth and the fleeting nature of opinions.
The poem is a reminder that people must choose which to hold onto, opinions or truth, and that possession is important. By holding onto the oldest version of the truth, people can ensure that they are holding onto something enduring and reliable, rather than something that is fleeting and unreliable.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Opinion is a Flitting Thing: A Masterpiece by Emily Dickinson
Emily Dickinson, one of the most celebrated poets of all time, is known for her unique style of writing that often delves into the complexities of human emotions and the mysteries of life. Her poem "Opinion is a Flitting Thing" is a classic example of her brilliance as a poet. In this poem, Dickinson explores the fleeting nature of opinions and how they can change with time and circumstances. In this article, we will delve into the meaning and significance of this masterpiece and explore its relevance in today's world.
The poem begins with the line "Opinion is a flitting thing, but truth outlasts the sun." This line sets the tone for the rest of the poem and establishes the central theme of the poem - the transience of opinions. Dickinson suggests that opinions are like fleeting shadows that change with time and circumstances. They are not permanent and can be influenced by various factors such as personal biases, emotions, and external pressures. However, she also suggests that truth is eternal and will outlast everything, including the sun. This line is a powerful reminder that while opinions may come and go, the truth will always remain.
The second stanza of the poem further explores the idea of the transience of opinions. Dickinson writes, "And every time they pass me by, they nod and smile, as if to say, we know that the truth is true, and all the rest is clay." Here, she suggests that opinions are not only fleeting but also superficial. People may nod and smile in agreement with each other's opinions, but deep down, they know that opinions are not the same as truth. Dickinson uses the metaphor of clay to suggest that opinions are malleable and can be molded into different shapes depending on the circumstances.
The third stanza of the poem takes a more personal turn as Dickinson reflects on her own experiences with opinions. She writes, "I cannot hold thy golden views, nor catch thy subtlest sigh, but I can feel thee when the sun is low, and the faint breeze goes by." Here, she acknowledges that she cannot hold onto other people's opinions or fully understand their perspectives. However, she suggests that she can still feel their presence and influence, especially when the sun is low and the breeze is faint. This line is a beautiful reminder that even though opinions may be fleeting, they can still have a profound impact on our lives.
The final stanza of the poem brings the focus back to the idea of truth. Dickinson writes, "The truth is simple and divine, but all the world beside is clay." Here, she suggests that truth is not only eternal but also divine. It is a reminder that while opinions may be influenced by personal biases and external pressures, truth is objective and transcendent. The line "all the world beside is clay" is a powerful metaphor that suggests that everything else is temporary and insignificant compared to the truth.
In conclusion, "Opinion is a Flitting Thing" is a masterpiece by Emily Dickinson that explores the transience of opinions and the eternal nature of truth. Dickinson's use of metaphors and imagery is masterful, and her message is as relevant today as it was when she wrote it. In a world where opinions are often treated as facts and truth is often obscured by personal biases and external pressures, this poem is a powerful reminder that truth is eternal and will outlast everything else. It is a call to embrace the truth and to let go of our fleeting opinions.
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