Why Is a Good General Knowledge of Emily Dickinson’s Life Useful for Interpreting Her Poems? Essay

Introduction

Biographical information is often used by readers and researchers who analyze literature works because it provides them with an opportunity to improve their understanding of the discussed issues. The same approach can be rather beneficial when dealing with Dickinson’s poems. Even though the themes she reveals in her pieces seem to be universal, they are taken from Emily’s life. With the help of her poetic imagination, Dickinson shares her experiences with the world.

Main body

The words of this poet are very personal. For instance, the influence of her Calvinist faith can be observed in her four-line stanzas and meter. They are similar to religious hymns and psalms that were familiar to her since her childhood. Nevertheless, Dickinson introduces changes to the stanzas by creating additional pauses, which reveals both her individuality and unwillingness to be focused on spirituality. The poet was familiar with religion from her early age due to the father’s influence (Williams). Her belief in God’s existence can be observed in the first works, such as “I reckon – when I count at all” (Dickinson). With the course of time, she starts questioning the possibility to get to Heaven, which reveals the fact that her faith is no more supported in real life and she experiences a tough period. Nevertheless, her doubts are overcome eventually. Her further works seem to reveal the relationship between two people. However, those who understand spiritual issues faced by the poet can also realize that these works reveal her connection with God and desire to be accepted by Him.

Conclusion

Being aware of Dickinson’s life, readers should use this information with caution because it can affect their perceptions adversely and lead to distortions. However, this knowledge allows recognizing some of her contrasting attitudes. At least general awareness of her biographical information can be extremely advantageous for the interpretation of her works.

Works Cited

Dickinson, Emily. “I Reckon—When I Count It All.” All Poetry, Web.

Williams, Emily. “God the Father: Emily Dickinson, Psychoanalysis and the Paternal Relationship.” VoegelinView. 2018, Web.