I Wish I Knew that Woman's Name

Name: I Wish I Knew that Woman's Name
Author: Emily Dickinson

The poem explores the speaker's longing to know a woman who has passed away, and their desire to understand her life and experiences. The speaker reflects on the woman's character, noting that she was kind and gentle, but also strong-willed and independent. The poem touches on themes of mortality, memory, and the human desire to connect with others across time and space.

By Emily Dickinson · First published 1844 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Elegy · 79 words

First lines

I wish I knew that woman's name, / So, when she comes this way, / To hold my life, and hold my ears, / For fear I hear her say

She's 'sorry I am dead,' again, / Just when the grave and I / Have sobbed ourselves almost to sleep, -- / Our only lullaby.

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I Wish I Knew that Woman's Name is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emily Dickinson, dated 1844 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Emily Dickinson
Date: 1844 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Elegy, Existential, Metaphysical
Length: 79 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs

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Work identity for I Wish I Knew that Woman's Name by Emily Dickinson
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Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, characteristic of lyric poetry.
Elegy — The theme of death and mourning aligns with the traditional elements of an elegy.
Existential — The poem explores themes of existence and the fear of being forgotten.