ENG2403
Axel-Lute
Be sure to read the introduction (pp. 2313-15). It is very helpful.
Dickinson’s poetry has short lines and simple words, but it is not simple poetry.
It is mostly about abstract concepts. Look for poems about death (such as #465), faith, truth, and other serious topics.
Notice how she uses literary devices such as personification and metaphor to deal with these concepts.
In general: Try to figure out what the poems are about and what poetic devices she uses to express her thoughts. Be prepared to point out similes, metaphors, and personification.
We will concentrate on these poems: 216, 258, 303, 328, 449, 465, 585, 632, 712, 1129, 1207, 1593.
Several of these poems are about death, but from different points of view. Which one is from the point of view of someone dying? Which one shows Death personified? Which ones are about dead people in a graveyard?
Many of the poems make references to religion. Find some of these references. What can you guess about Dickinson’s beliefs from these references? Was she a traditionally religious person?
Some poems are about more concrete subjects. Find some of these. What is #585 about?