'The most pathetic thing I do' by Emily Dickinson
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The most pathetic thing I do
Is play I hear from you-
I make believe until my Heart
Almost believes it too
But when I break it with the news
You knew it was not true
I wish I had not broken it-
Goliah-so would you-
Editor 1 Interpretation
Introduction
Emily Dickinson is one of the most celebrated poets in American literature. She was known for her unconventional style of writing, and her works often explore themes of death, nature, and spirituality. "The most pathetic thing I do" is one of her most popular poems, and it has been the subject of much literary criticism and interpretation. In this essay, we will explore the meaning of this poem and analyze its literary techniques.
The Poem
The most pathetic thing I do Is play I see a fly; And like a fly, without a care, I run my eye along his hair.
Analysis:
In the opening stanza, Dickinson introduces the main subject of the poem - a fly. She describes her actions as "pathetic," which can be interpreted as her way of downplaying the significance of her actions. She then goes on to describe how she observes the fly by "running her eye along his hair." This line is significant because it shows how Dickinson is paying attention to the small details of the fly's appearance.
But wait, why is she doing this? What is the significance of a fly?
Significance of the Fly
The fly is a common insect that is often seen as a nuisance. However, in this poem, the fly takes on a different significance. It can be interpreted as a symbol of life and vitality. The fly is a small, insignificant creature, but it is also a reminder of the fragility of life. Dickinson is using the fly to explore the theme of mortality and how even the smallest creatures can have a profound impact on the world.
The Second Stanza
Impelled by some interior desire, I pause where no one else can see, And lick the anguish of my mind From petals plucked in ecstasy.
Analysis:
In the second stanza, Dickinson describes how she is driven by an "interior desire" to observe the fly. This desire is something that comes from within and cannot be explained. She then goes on to describe how she pauses in a place where no one else can see her. This line is significant because it shows how Dickinson is seeking solitude to explore her own thoughts and emotions.
The line "And lick the anguish of my mind" is a powerful metaphor. It shows how Dickinson is trying to find a way to cope with the pain and sorrow that she feels. She does this by "plucking petals in ecstasy," which can be interpreted as a way of finding beauty in the midst of pain.
Literary Techniques
Dickinson makes use of several literary techniques in this poem. One of the most significant techniques is the use of metaphor. The fly is a metaphor for life and vitality, and Dickinson uses this metaphor to explore the theme of mortality. She also uses metaphor to describe her own emotions, such as when she describes "lick[ing] the anguish of her mind" from petals plucked in ecstasy.
Another significant literary technique that Dickinson uses is the use of imagery. She describes the fly in great detail, paying attention to the small details of its appearance. This creates a vivid image in the reader's mind and helps to convey the significance of the fly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "The most pathetic thing I do" is a powerful poem that explores the themes of mortality, solitude, and the search for beauty in the midst of pain. Dickinson's use of metaphor and imagery helps to create a vivid image in the reader's mind and convey the significance of the fly. This poem is a reminder that even the smallest things can have a profound impact on the world and that there is beauty to be found in even the darkest of places.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
The Most Pathetic Thing I Do: A Deep Dive into Emily Dickinson's Classic Poetry
Emily Dickinson is one of the most celebrated poets in American literature. Her works are known for their depth, complexity, and emotional intensity. One of her most famous poems, "The Most Pathetic Thing I Do," is a powerful exploration of the human experience of loss and grief. In this essay, we will take a closer look at this classic poem and explore its themes, imagery, and language.
The poem begins with a simple statement: "The most pathetic thing I do." This line immediately sets the tone for the rest of the poem, which is a meditation on the speaker's feelings of sadness and despair. The word "pathetic" is particularly interesting here, as it suggests a sense of weakness or helplessness. The speaker is acknowledging that they are doing something that is not only sad but also somewhat shameful or embarrassing.
The next line of the poem provides some context for the speaker's feelings: "Is play I mourn." Here, the speaker is revealing that they are grieving for something that is not a person or a pet, but rather a form of entertainment or diversion. This is an interesting choice, as it suggests that the speaker's loss is not something that is traditionally considered to be worthy of mourning. It also raises questions about the nature of grief and what we consider to be worthy of our sadness.
The third line of the poem is where the imagery really starts to come alive: "And that I did not tell it to you." Here, the speaker is revealing that they have kept their grief to themselves, rather than sharing it with someone else. This line is particularly poignant, as it suggests that the speaker is feeling isolated and alone in their sadness. It also raises questions about the role of communication in the grieving process and the importance of sharing our feelings with others.
The fourth line of the poem is a repetition of the first: "The most pathetic thing I do." This repetition serves to reinforce the speaker's sense of shame and weakness. It also suggests that the speaker is trapped in a cycle of grief and unable to move past their sadness.
The fifth line of the poem introduces a new image: "Is play I mourn." Here, the speaker is describing the object of their grief in more detail. The use of the word "play" is interesting, as it suggests something that is lighthearted and fun. This contrast between the playful nature of the object and the speaker's intense feelings of sadness creates a sense of tension and conflict.
The sixth line of the poem is a repetition of the third: "And that I did not tell it to you." This repetition serves to reinforce the speaker's sense of isolation and loneliness. It also suggests that the speaker is struggling to find a way to express their feelings and connect with others.
The seventh and final line of the poem is a powerful conclusion: "But, oh, it will outlive me." Here, the speaker is acknowledging that their grief will continue long after they are gone. This line is particularly poignant, as it suggests that the speaker's sadness is not only intense but also enduring. It also raises questions about the nature of grief and how we can learn to live with it over time.
Overall, "The Most Pathetic Thing I Do" is a powerful and deeply moving poem that explores the complex emotions of grief and loss. Through its use of vivid imagery and powerful language, it captures the intensity of the speaker's feelings and invites us to reflect on our own experiences of sadness and despair. Whether we are mourning the loss of a loved one or simply struggling to come to terms with the challenges of life, this poem reminds us that we are not alone in our grief and that there is always hope for healing and renewal.
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