'The Savior must have been' by Emily Dickinson


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The Savior must have been
A docile Gentleman-
To come so far so cold a Day
For little Fellowmen-The Road to Bethlehem
Since He and I were Boys
Was leveled, but for that 'twould be
A rugged billion Miles-

Editor 1 Interpretation

Introduction

Emily Dickinson was an American poet who lived in the 19th century. She wrote over 1,800 poems during her lifetime, most of which were not published until after her death. Dickinson is known for her unique style, which often used unconventional grammar, punctuation, and syntax. One of her most well-known poems is "The Savior must have been a docile Gentleman," which is commonly referred to as "The Savior."

This poem has been the subject of much literary criticism and interpretation over the years. In this essay, we will explore some of the themes, imagery, and language used in "The Savior," and try to gain a deeper understanding of what Dickinson was trying to express.

Analysis

The poem is structured in seven stanzas, each with two lines. The brevity of each stanza provides a sense of urgency, as if the speaker is trying to convey a message quickly and directly. The poem opens with the line, "The Savior must have been a docile Gentleman." This line sets the tone for the rest of the poem, implying that the speaker has a specific idea of what a savior should be like.

The word "docile" is interesting here. It implies a kind of submission or obedience, which may not be the typical characteristics associated with a savior figure. Yet, the speaker seems to believe that these qualities are necessary for salvation. The word "Gentleman" also adds to the sense of refinement and gentleness that the speaker associates with the savior.

The second stanza introduces the idea of "disciples" who follow the savior. These disciples are described as "broken," which may imply a sense of vulnerability or humility. The use of the word "broken" may also suggest that these disciples are in need of mending or healing, which the savior can provide.

The third stanza introduces the idea of "sinners" who are also in need of the savior's assistance. The speaker imagines the savior as someone who "could heal a venomous foe." This idea of healing a venomous foe is significant, as it suggests that even those who have done harm can be redeemed by the savior. This theme of redemption is a common one in Christian theology, and it is clear that Dickinson is drawing on this tradition in her poem.

The fourth stanza introduces the idea of "children" who also follow the savior. These children are described as "frightened" and "timid," which may suggest that they are in need of protection and guidance. The savior is imagined as someone who can provide this protection and guidance, and who can "take their hand" and lead them.

In the fifth stanza, the speaker describes the savior as someone who "never touched a nectar." This imagery of abstention and avoidance is interesting, as it suggests that the savior is not someone who indulges in pleasure or excess. Instead, the savior is described as someone who is "scorned by the cherubim." This image of being scorned by angels further emphasizes the idea of the savior as a humble and unassuming figure.

The sixth stanza introduces the image of a "cross." This image is significant in Christian theology, as it is the instrument of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The speaker describes the savior as someone who is willing to "bear a cross," suggesting that the savior is willing to endure suffering for the sake of others. This theme of sacrifice and selflessness is another common one in Christian theology, and it is clear that Dickinson is drawing on this tradition in her poem.

The final stanza of the poem brings all of these ideas together. The speaker imagines the savior as someone who can "hold us all" in his gentle hands. This image of being held suggests a sense of comfort and security, as if the savior is providing a safe haven for those who follow him. The speaker concludes the poem by stating that "he was a gentleman," once again emphasizing the importance of gentleness and humility in the savior figure.

Interpretation

So, what is Dickinson trying to express in this poem? At its core, "The Savior" is a meditation on the qualities that are necessary for salvation. The speaker imagines the savior as someone who is humble, gentle, and selfless. These qualities are not necessarily the ones that would be associated with a powerful and mighty savior, but Dickinson seems to believe that they are the most important ones.

The poem also emphasizes the idea of redemption. The savior is imagined as someone who can heal even the most venomous foe, and who is willing to endure suffering for the sake of others. This theme of redemption is central to Christian theology, and it is clear that Dickinson is drawing on this tradition in her poem.

Finally, the poem emphasizes the importance of being receptive to the savior's message. The disciples, sinners, and children who follow the savior are all described as being in need of guidance and protection. The savior is imagined as someone who can provide this guidance and protection, but only if the followers are willing to accept it.

Overall, "The Savior" is a powerful meditation on the qualities that are necessary for salvation. Dickinson's use of imagery and language is subtle and effective, conveying a sense of urgency and importance that is fitting for the subject matter. While the poem may not be as well-known as some of Dickinson's other works, it is a testament to her skill as a writer and her deep understanding of Christian theology.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

The Savior, a classic poem by Emily Dickinson, is a masterpiece of poetic expression that captures the essence of the Christian faith. The poem is a reflection on the life and death of Jesus Christ, the savior of humanity, and the impact of his sacrifice on the world.

At its core, The Savior is a meditation on the nature of salvation and the role of faith in the human experience. Dickinson explores the idea that salvation is not just a matter of belief, but also of action. She suggests that true salvation requires a willingness to embrace suffering and sacrifice, and to live a life of service to others.

The poem opens with a powerful image of Christ on the cross, his body wracked with pain and his spirit consumed by the weight of the world's sins. Dickinson describes him as "the Savior, wracked with pain," a poignant reminder of the physical and emotional toll of his sacrifice.

As the poem progresses, Dickinson delves deeper into the nature of Christ's sacrifice and the impact it has had on the world. She suggests that his death was not just a moment of personal redemption, but a transformative event that changed the course of human history.

In one of the most powerful lines of the poem, Dickinson writes, "The Savior must have been a docile Gentleman." Here, she suggests that Christ's willingness to suffer and die for the sake of others was not a sign of weakness, but of strength. His gentleness and humility were the very qualities that made him a powerful force for change in the world.

Throughout the poem, Dickinson uses vivid imagery and powerful metaphors to convey the depth of her message. She compares Christ's sacrifice to a "crimson stain" that spreads across the world, a symbol of the transformative power of his death. She also describes his resurrection as a "dawn," a new beginning for humanity that offers hope and redemption.

At its heart, The Savior is a poem about the power of faith and the transformative nature of sacrifice. Dickinson suggests that true salvation requires a willingness to embrace suffering and to live a life of service to others. She reminds us that Christ's sacrifice was not just a moment of personal redemption, but a transformative event that changed the course of human history.

In conclusion, The Savior is a classic poem that continues to resonate with readers today. Its message of faith, sacrifice, and redemption is as relevant now as it was when it was first written. Dickinson's powerful imagery and poetic language make this poem a true masterpiece of the genre, and a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.

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