A Poor Torn Heart, a Tattered Heart
The poem explores the theme of heartbreak and loss, describing a heart that has been torn apart by sorrow and pain. The speaker describes their heart as being in shreds, unable to be mended or repaired. The poem suggests that this emotional pain is so intense that it cannot be alleviated by time or external forces.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1844 · Genre: Poetry, Spiritual, Metaphysical · 137 words
First lines
A poor torn heart, a tattered heart, That sat it down to rest, Nor noticed that the ebbing day Flowed silver to the west, Nor noticed night did soft descend Nor constellation burn, Intent upon the vision Of latitudes unknown.
The angels, happening that way, This dusty heart espied; Tenderly took it up from toil And carried it to God.
There, -- sandals for the barefoot; There, -- gathered from the gales, Do the blue havens by the hand Lead the wandering sails.
What this Textopian page supports
A Poor Torn Heart, a Tattered Heart is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emily Dickinson, dated 1844 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Emily Dickinson
- Date: 1844 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Spiritual, Metaphysical, Romantic
- Length: 137 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
- When Coldness Wraps This Suffering Clay by Lord Byron
- To Sorrow by Madison Cawein
- For Warmth Alone by Edna St Vincent Millay
- Few Come This Way by Edna St Vincent Millay
- When Lydia Smiles by Madison Cawein
- Farewell by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and imagery, characteristic of poetry.
- Spiritual — Themes of divine intervention and the soul's journey to God suggest a spiritual genre.
- Metaphysical — Explores abstract concepts such as the soul, divine presence, and existential reflection.
- Romantic — Emphasizes emotion and nature, aligning with Romantic literary themes.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Tragedy · Heartbreak · Loss · Longing · Pain · Sorrow · Melancholy · Despair · Isolation · Solitude