Hope is the Thing with Feathers
The poem explores the idea that hope is a constant and enduring presence in one's life, much like a bird that stays with you through difficult times. It is described as gentle, yet persistent, and able to provide comfort and solace when needed. The speaker suggests that hope can be a source of strength and resilience, allowing individuals to persevere even in the face of adversity.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Metaphysical · 108 words
First lines
Hope is the thing with feathers / That perches in the soul, / And sings the tune without the words, / And never stops at all,
And sweetest in the gale is heard; / And sore must be the storm / That could abash the little bird / That kept so many warm.
I 've heard it in the chillest land, / And on the strangest sea; / Yet, never, in extremity, / It asked a crumb of me.
What this Textopian page supports
Hope is the Thing with Feathers 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, Lyric, Metaphysical, Inspirational, Nature
- Length: 108 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Hope is the Thing with Feathers by Emily Dickinson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing meter and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, focusing on abstract concepts like hope.
- Metaphysical — The poem explores abstract themes such as hope and resilience, using metaphorical language.
- Inspirational — The theme of hope as an enduring and uplifting force provides an inspirational message.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Hope · Optimism · Spirituality · Faith · Freedom · Individuality · Solitude · Mortality · Existentialism · Philosophy