Choice by Emily Dickinson (1896)
The poem explores the idea of choice and its consequences on one's life. The speaker reflects on how choices made in youth can shape one's future and lead to regret or fulfillment. The poem highlights the importance of considering the long-term effects of one's decisions, rather than acting impulsively. It also touches on the theme of mortality, suggesting that our choices are ultimately what define us after we're gone.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual · 99 words
First lines
Of all the souls that stand create / I have elected one.
When sense from spirit files away, / And subterfuge is done;
When that which is and that which was / Apart, intrinsic, stand, / And this brief tragedy of flesh / Is shifted like a sand;
When figures show their royal front / And mists are carved away, -- / Behold the atom I preferred / To all the lists of clay!
Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential and metaphysical concepts, such as the nature of the soul and identity.
- Spiritual — The poem delves into spiritual themes, reflecting on the soul and its eternal aspects.
- Romantic — There is an element of personal choice and preference, which can be interpreted as a romantic selection of a soul.
Tags
Poetry · Philosophy · Existentialism · Free Verse · American Literature · 19th Century · Mortality · Death · Life · Choice · Responsibility · Morality
What this Textopian page supports
Choice is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emily Dickinson, dated 1896 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: 1896 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual, Romantic
- Length: 99 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
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