I Reason, Earth is Short by Emily Dickinson

Name: I Reason, Earth is Short
Author: Emily Dickinson

The poem explores the speaker's perception of time and mortality. The speaker believes that life on Earth is short, and this realization prompts a sense of urgency to make the most of one's existence. The poem touches on themes of existentialism, the fleeting nature of human experience, and the importance of living in the present moment.

By Emily Dickinson · First published 1846 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Reflective · 89 words

First lines

I reason, earth is short, / And anguish absolute, / And many hurt; / But what of that?

I reason, we could die: / The best vitality / Cannot excel decay; / But what of that?

I reason that in heaven / Somehow, it will be even, / Some new equation given; / But what of that?

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I Reason, Earth is Short is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emily Dickinson, dated 1846 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Emily Dickinson
Date: 1846 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Reflective, Religious
Length: 89 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs

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Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions about life, death, and the afterlife, which are central to philosophical inquiry.
Reflective — The poem reflects on personal and universal experiences of life and mortality, encouraging introspection.
Religious — The mention of heaven and the contemplation of an afterlife suggest religious themes.