Hope by Emily Dickinson (1890)
The poem explores the concept of hope as a fragile and elusive entity that can be both empowering and debilitating. It describes hope as a gentle breeze that can lift one's spirits but also as a force that can lead to disappointment and despair. The speaker reflects on the fleeting nature of hope, how it can vanish in an instant, leaving behind only regret and longing.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Metaphysical · 61 words
First lines
Hope is a subtle glutton; He feeds upon the fair; And yet, inspected closely, What abstinence is there!
His is the halcyon table That never seats but one, And whatsoever is consumed The same amounts remain.
What this Textopian page supports
Hope is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emily Dickinson, dated 1890 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: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Metaphysical, Symbolism
- Length: 61 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Hope by Emily Dickinson
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore abstract concepts such as hope and its paradoxical nature.
- Metaphysical — The poem delves into the nature of existence and the intangible qualities of hope.
- Symbolism — The use of metaphor and imagery to convey deeper meanings about hope is characteristic of symbolic literature.
Tags
Poetry · Philosophy · Existentialism · Hope · Optimism · Pessimism · Mortality · Life · Death · Nature · Spirituality · Faith