Lost by Emily Dickinson (1890)
The poem explores the theme of spiritual crisis and disillusionment with traditional religious beliefs. The speaker describes a sense of disconnection from God and the world around them, feeling lost and uncertain about their place in the universe. The poem's tone is one of introspection and melancholy, with the speaker grappling with questions of faith and morality. They express a desire to be reunited with God, but feel disconnected and alone. Throughout the poem, the speaker uses imagery and metaphor to convey their emotional state, drawing on natural imagery such as darkness and light to describe their spiritual condition. The poem's structure is characterized by short, fragmented sentences that create a sense of disjointedness and uncertainty. This mirrors the speaker's emotional state, conveying a sense of disconnection and confusion. Ultimately, the poem presents a complex and nuanced exploration of spirituality and faith, raising questions about the nature of God and the human condition.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Metaphysical · 73 words
First lines
I lost a world the other day. Has anybody found? You'll know it by the row of stars Around its forehead bound.
A rich man might not notice it; Yet to my frugal eye Of more esteem than ducats. Oh, find it, sir, for me!
What this Textopian page supports
Lost 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, Philosophical, Symbolism
- Length: 73 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Similar titles
- Void by Emily Dickinson
- Gone by Emily Dickinson
- Following by Emily Dickinson
- Evening by Emily Dickinson
- Hunger by Emily Dickinson
- Each That We Lose Takes Part Of Us by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality typical of poetry.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, characteristic of the lyric genre.
- Metaphysical — The poem explores abstract concepts such as loss and value, aligning with metaphysical themes.
- Philosophical — The work contemplates the nature of loss and worth, engaging with philosophical ideas.
Tags
Poetry · Mortality · Existentialism · Philosophy · Nature · Solitude · Longing · Loss · Grief · Memory · Time · Ephemerality