'Their Height in Heaven comforts not' by Emily Dickinson
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Their Height in Heaven comforts not-
Their Glory-nought to me-
'Twas best imperfect-as it was-
I'm finite-I can't see-The House of Supposition-
The Glimmering Frontier that
Skirts the Acres of Perhaps-
To Me-shows insecure-The Wealth I had-contented me-
If 'twas a meaner size-
Then I had counted it until
It pleased my narrow Eyes-Better than larger values-
That show however true-
This timid life of Evidence
Keeps pleading-"I don't know."
Editor 1 Interpretation
Their Height in Heaven comforts not: A Literary Criticism and Interpretation
Introduction
Emily Dickinson is widely regarded as one of the most important poets in American literature. Her poetry is characterized by its unconventional use of language, its use of dashes and unconventional punctuation, and its exploration of themes such as death, nature, and spirituality. One of her most famous poems, "Their Height in Heaven comforts not," is a prime example of her unique style and themes.
In this literary criticism and interpretation, we will explore the key themes, imagery, and language used in the poem. We will also examine the historical and cultural context in which the poem was written, and consider how this context influenced Dickinson's work.
Historical and Cultural Context
Dickinson wrote "Their Height in Heaven comforts not" during the mid-nineteenth century, a period of significant social and cultural change in America. This was a time of rapid industrialization, urbanization, and technological advancement, as well as significant political and social upheaval, including the Civil War.
It was also a time of religious revivalism, with many Americans turning to religion in response to the social and political changes they were experiencing. Dickinson's family were devout Calvinists, and religion played a significant role in her life and work. However, Dickinson also struggled with her faith and questioned many traditional religious beliefs.
Themes and Imagery
"Their Height in Heaven comforts not" explores themes of death, spirituality, and the limitations of human understanding. The poem begins with the lines "Their Height in Heaven comforts not, / Their Glory—nought to me—" These lines suggest that the speaker is not comforted by the idea of the dead being in heaven, despite the fact that this is a common religious belief.
The poem goes on to describe the dead as "an earthen lip," "a nameless stone," and "an unremembered mound." These images suggest that the speaker sees the dead as being forgotten and insignificant, despite their supposed presence in heaven.
The poem also explores the limitations of human understanding, particularly in relation to death and the afterlife. The speaker says "Nor what they died for, / Was it for this?" suggesting that the reasons for the dead's deaths are unknown and perhaps unknowable.
The final two lines of the poem, "A piercing Comfort it affords / In passing, from Disease—" suggest that the only comfort to be found in death is in the release from suffering that it brings.
Language
Dickinson's use of language in "Their Height in Heaven comforts not" is characteristic of her unique style. She uses dashes and unconventional punctuation to create a sense of fragmentation and uncertainty, reflecting the themes of the poem.
The poem is also characterized by its use of paradox and contradiction. For example, the idea that the dead's "Height in Heaven" does not bring comfort suggests a contradiction between traditional religious beliefs and the speaker's own experience.
Interpretation
"Their Height in Heaven comforts not" is a powerful exploration of death, spirituality, and the limitations of human understanding. The poem challenges traditional religious beliefs and suggests that true comfort cannot be found in these beliefs alone.
The speaker's questioning of the reasons for the dead's deaths and the limitations of human understanding suggest a deep sense of uncertainty and doubt. However, the final lines of the poem suggest that some comfort can be found in the release from suffering that death brings.
Overall, "Their Height in Heaven comforts not" is a poignant and powerful exploration of some of life's deepest questions. Its unique language and imagery, combined with its exploration of themes that are still relevant today, make it a timeless and important work of poetry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Emily Dickinson's "Their Height in Heaven comforts not" is a complex and powerful work of poetry that explores themes of death, spirituality, and the limitations of human understanding. Its unique style and imagery, combined with its exploration of themes that are still relevant today, make it a timeless and important work of American literature.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Poetry is a form of art that has been used to express human emotions and thoughts for centuries. It is a medium that allows us to communicate our deepest feelings and experiences in a way that is both beautiful and meaningful. One such poem that captures the essence of poetry is "Their Height in Heaven comforts not" by Emily Dickinson.
Emily Dickinson was an American poet who lived in the 19th century. She is known for her unique style of writing, which often includes unconventional punctuation and capitalization. Her poems are characterized by their brevity and their ability to convey complex emotions in just a few lines. "Their Height in Heaven comforts not" is a perfect example of this.
The poem begins with the line, "Their Height in Heaven comforts not." This line immediately sets the tone for the rest of the poem. It suggests that even though the subjects of the poem may be in a place of great comfort, it is not enough to ease their pain or suffering. This line also introduces the idea of heaven, which is a recurring theme throughout the poem.
The second line of the poem reads, "Their Glory – nought to me." This line suggests that the speaker of the poem is not impressed by the glory or accomplishments of the subjects. This could be interpreted as a rejection of materialism or a desire for something more meaningful than worldly success.
The third line of the poem reads, "’Twas beggars – Cherubs – fed." This line introduces the idea of beggars and cherubs. Beggars are typically associated with poverty and suffering, while cherubs are associated with innocence and purity. The fact that both beggars and cherubs are being fed suggests that they are both in need of sustenance, regardless of their status.
The fourth line of the poem reads, "Forgive me, Brother, thy defeat." This line is addressed to the speaker's brother and suggests that he has suffered a defeat of some kind. The use of the word "Brother" suggests a familial relationship, which adds a personal element to the poem. The fact that the speaker is asking for forgiveness suggests that they may have played a role in their brother's defeat.
The fifth and final line of the poem reads, "The love thou boldest far above." This line suggests that the speaker's brother holds love above all else. This could be interpreted as a rejection of materialism or a desire for something more meaningful than worldly success.
Overall, "Their Height in Heaven comforts not" is a powerful poem that explores themes of suffering, materialism, and love. Emily Dickinson's unique style of writing allows her to convey complex emotions in just a few lines, making this poem a perfect example of her talent as a poet.
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