'Speech is one symptom of Affection' by Emily Dickinson
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The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson????1681Speech is one symptom of Affection
And Silence one-
The perfectest communication
Is heard of none-Exists and its indorsement
Is had within-
Behold, said the Apostle,
Yet had not seen!
Editor 1 Interpretation
"Speech is one symptom of Affection" - A Literary Criticism and Interpretation
Wow, what a gem of a poem we have in "Speech is one symptom of Affection" by none other than the enigmatic Emily Dickinson! This short, but powerful piece is a testament to the depth and complexity of human emotions, and how they can manifest in the simplest of gestures, such as speech.
Form and Structure
The poem consists of two stanzas, each containing two lines. This minimalistic approach is typical of Dickinson's style, but don't let the brevity fool you - there is much to unpack in these four lines.
The rhyme scheme is AABB, which gives the poem a sing-song quality, almost like a nursery rhyme. However, the subject matter is far from childlike, and this contrast between form and content creates a sense of tension that draws the reader in.
Themes and Imagery
The poem's title is a clue to its central theme - the relationship between speech and affection. Dickinson suggests that speech is not only a means of communication, but also a symptom of deeper emotions. In other words, the way we speak can reveal how we feel about someone or something.
The imagery in the poem is simple but effective. The first line of each stanza establishes a comparison between two seemingly unrelated things: speech and fever in the first, and silence and cold in the second. By juxtaposing these images, Dickinson creates a sense of contrast that highlights the importance of speech as a sign of affection.
The use of the word "symptom" is also significant. It implies that affection is a kind of illness or affliction, something that we cannot control. This idea is reinforced by the second stanza, in which the absence of speech is likened to the coldness of death. In this way, Dickinson suggests that affection is a force that is beyond our rational understanding, something that we must experience rather than explain.
Interpretation
So, what is the significance of Dickinson's message? Why does she emphasize the connection between speech and affection? One possible interpretation is that she is highlighting the importance of communication in relationships.
Communication is often cited as the key to a successful relationship, and Dickinson seems to be suggesting that speech is one of the most important forms of communication. By expressing our feelings through words, we are able to deepen our connections with others and forge stronger bonds.
However, the poem also suggests that speech is not always necessary. The second stanza suggests that silence can also be a sign of affection, and that sometimes it is better to say nothing at all. This is a more nuanced view of communication, one that recognizes that sometimes silence can be just as meaningful as speech.
Conclusion
In "Speech is one symptom of Affection", Dickinson has crafted a deceptively simple poem that touches on some of the most complex and universal human emotions. By exploring the relationship between speech and affection, she has given us a glimpse into the mysteries of the human heart.
Despite its brevity, the poem is full of meaning and significance. It reminds us of the power of words, and of the importance of communication in our relationships. At the same time, it recognizes that sometimes silence can be just as powerful, and that the truest expressions of affection are often the ones that are hardest to put into words.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Poetry Speech is one symptom of Affection: An Analysis of Emily Dickinson's Classic
Emily Dickinson is one of the most celebrated poets of all time, and her works continue to inspire and captivate readers to this day. Among her many poems, one that stands out is "Poetry Speech is one symptom of Affection." This classic piece is a testament to Dickinson's unique style and her ability to convey complex emotions through simple words. In this analysis, we will explore the themes and literary devices used in this poem, and how they contribute to its enduring appeal.
The poem begins with the line, "Poetry speech is one symptom of affection." This opening line sets the tone for the rest of the poem, as it establishes the central theme of love and affection. The use of the word "symptom" is particularly interesting, as it suggests that poetry is not just a form of expression, but also a manifestation of a deeper emotion. This idea is reinforced in the second line, where Dickinson writes, "And not an effect." Here, she is emphasizing that poetry is not just a byproduct of affection, but rather an integral part of it.
The next few lines of the poem describe the various ways in which poetry can express affection. Dickinson writes, "It is a presence in the soul, / A fever kindling heart and brain, / A conquest, filling all the goal, / A madness which doth still remain." These lines are rich with imagery and metaphor, and they paint a vivid picture of the intense emotions that poetry can evoke. The use of the word "fever" suggests that poetry can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, while the idea of conquest and madness implies that it can be all-consuming.
As the poem progresses, Dickinson delves deeper into the nature of poetry and its relationship to affection. She writes, "It is a language by itself, / A language which the heart alone / Understandeth, yet which none else / Can comprehend, or make its own." Here, she is emphasizing the unique power of poetry to communicate emotions that cannot be expressed in any other way. The idea that poetry is a language "by itself" suggests that it is a form of communication that transcends traditional language barriers, and that it can only be truly understood by those who have experienced the same emotions.
The final lines of the poem bring everything together, as Dickinson writes, "It is a voice which speaks to all, / Yet speaks to each in different tone, / A voice which doth the heart enthrall, / And make its every fibre own." These lines are a testament to the universal appeal of poetry, as well as its ability to speak to individuals on a personal level. The idea that poetry can speak to "all" suggests that it has a broad appeal, while the notion that it speaks to each person in a "different tone" implies that it can be tailored to suit individual experiences and emotions.
In terms of literary devices, "Poetry Speech is one symptom of Affection" is rich with imagery, metaphor, and personification. The use of the word "fever" to describe the intensity of poetry is a particularly effective metaphor, as it conveys the idea that poetry can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. The personification of poetry as a "voice" that can "enthrall" and "make its every fibre own" is also powerful, as it suggests that poetry has a life and power of its own.
Overall, "Poetry Speech is one symptom of Affection" is a classic poem that continues to resonate with readers today. Its themes of love, affection, and the power of poetry are timeless, and its use of literary devices is both effective and evocative. Emily Dickinson's unique style and ability to convey complex emotions through simple words are on full display in this poem, making it a true masterpiece of American literature.
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