I have a King who does not Speak
The poem explores the theme of silence and its relationship to power. The King's inability to speak serves as a metaphor for the limitations of language in conveying true authority. His silence also underscores the idea that true power lies not in words, but in action.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1859 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Metaphysical · 181 words
First lines
I have a king who does not speak; / So, wondering, thro' the hours meek / I trudge the day away, -- / Half glad when it is night and sleep, / If, haply, thro' a dream to peep / In parlors shut by day.
And if I do, when morning comes, / It is as if a hundred drums / Did round my pillow roll, / And shouts fill all my childish sky, / And bells keep saying 'victory' / From steeples in my soul!
And if I don't, the little Bird / Within the Orchard is not heard, / And I omit to pray, / 'Father, thy will be done' to-day, / For my will goes the other way, / And it were perjury!
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Metaphysical — The themes explore abstract concepts such as the nature of dreams and inner conflict, aligning with metaphysical poetry.
- Religious — The poem references prayer and divine will, indicating religious themes.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Symbolism · Imagery · Nature · Solitude · Love · Longing · Silence · Communication · Isolation
What this Textopian page supports
I have a King who does not Speak is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emily Dickinson, dated 1859 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: 1859 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Metaphysical, Religious, Symbolism
- Length: 181 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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