Trees

Overview of Emily Dickinson and Her Poetry

Emily Dickinson is an iconic poet from the nineteenth century, known for her unique poetic style and reclusive life. Throughout her lifetime, she published only a handful of poems, totalling 1789, which were discovered and published posthumously. Her work is characterized by unconventional capitalisation, extensive use of dashes, and a rich, lyrical quality.

Analysis of the Poem ‘Trees’

The poem ‘Trees’ encapsulates the essence of summer, using the imagery of nature to evoke a deeper emotional response. The title itself, ‘Trees’, signifies not just the physical form but represents life, growth, and the interconnectedness of all beings.

Key Imagery in ‘Trees’

• Trees Like Tassels: This simile conveys the gracefulness of trees swaying in the wind. The comparison to tassels suggests an ornamental quality, enhancing the visual aesthetics of summer.
• Miniature Creatures: The reference may suggest the small organisms and insects that contribute to the ecosystem. By calling them miniature, Dickinson reflects their significance in the broader narrative of nature, making them a vital part of the landscape.
• Psalteries of Summer: This phrase metaphorically connects the sounds of nature to musical instruments, implying that the essence of summer is akin to a melodic composition, where every sound contributes to the overall harmony.
• Hindered Flags: This imagery suggests a sense of restraint or struggle, reflecting how natural beauty can sometimes seem thwarted. Yet, the flags hoisted sweetly indicates resilience and beauty amidst challenges.

The Sun’s Personification

Dickinson’s use of capitalisation for pronouns related to the Sun (e.g., Him, Himself) implies a divine quality, attributing personality and will to the Sun. It suggests that the Sun can choose how much to reveal itself, impacting the landscape dramatically.

Themes in the Poem

1. Beauty and Perception: The poet contrasts the inability of painters to capture the depth of nature and beauty through careful observation. She implies that true appreciation for nature goes beyond visual art.
2. Interrelation of Nature and Emotion: Dickinson navigates how natural phenomena evoke emotional experiences, suggesting a deep connection between the observer and the observed.
3. Ephemerality: The poem reflects on the transient aspects of nature — for instance, the Sun’s appearance is described as optional, highlighting how beauty can be fleeting.

Responding to the Poem

To analyze the imagery, students can consider how Dickinson employs her lush, descriptive language to evoke feelings that might surpass the static images of a painter. The questions posed for response encourage deeper engagement with the text:

1. How does each imagery connect the reader emotionally to the scene?
2. What personifications are noted, and how do they enrich our understanding of nature?
3. How can one illustrate the uniqueness in each line?

Language Study

Students are encouraged to dive deeper into the language of the poem. They will compare 'Psaltery' with 'dulcimer' by examining their illustrations and functionalities, concluding how the differences contribute to their significance in literature and music.

Suggested Reading

For further exploration, reading The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson will enrich understanding of her work and themes. Each poem can be approached with the perspective of the intertwining relationship between nature and poetry.

By closely analyzing the instruments mentioned and the beauty expressed, students will gain a more profound appreciation for Dickinson’s craftsmanship and her intricate relationship with the natural world.

1. Emily Dickinson was an introverted poet widely recognized for her unique style.
2. Her poetry often includes unconventional capitalisation and extensive dashes.
3. The imagery of trees is central in her poem, symbolizing life and beauty.
4. The phrase ‘Psalteries of Summer’ connects nature’s sounds to music, showcasing its beauty.
5. Dickinson personifies the Sun, attributing it with choice and whim.
6. The poem highlights the interconnectedness of nature and emotions.
7. The contrast between reality and artistic representation underscores the transience of natural beauty.
8. Hindered Flags represent struggle yet signify resilience and poetry's depth.
9. Students should engage with the language and symbolism in the poem to deepen understanding.