Hunger by Emily Dickinson (1890)
The poem explores the theme of hunger as a metaphor for spiritual longing and desire. It describes the speaker's inner emptiness and their search for fulfillment. The poem suggests that true satisfaction can only be found through spiritual connection, rather than material or sensual pursuits.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Metaphysical · 184 words
First lines
I had been hungry all the years; My noon had come, to dine; I, trembling, drew the table near, And touched the curious wine.
'T was this on tables I had seen, When turning, hungry, lone, I looked in windows, for the wealth I could not hope to own.
I did not know the ample bread, 'T was so unlike the crumb The birds and I had often shared In Nature's dining-room.
The plenty hurt me, 't was so new, -- Myself felt ill and odd, As berry of a mountain bush Transplanted to the road.
What this Textopian page supports
Hunger 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, Lyric, Metaphysical, Symbolism, American Literature
- Length: 184 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Lost by Emily Dickinson
- Void by Emily Dickinson
- Requiem by Emily Dickinson
- Mine by Emily Dickinson
- Going by Emily Dickinson
- Dying by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and reflections, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Metaphysical — The poem explores abstract themes such as existential hunger and fulfillment, aligning with metaphysical poetry.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols like 'bread' and 'wine' to convey deeper meanings is indicative of symbolic literature.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Existentialism · Philosophy · Mortality · Hunger · Thirst · Longing · Desire · Spirituality · Faith · Doubt