Loyalty by Emily Dickinson (1890)
The poem explores the theme of loyalty and its complexities. It delves into the idea that loyalty can be a double-edged sword, bringing both comfort and confinement. The speaker reflects on the nature of loyalty, questioning whether it's a virtue or a vice. Through imagery and metaphor, the poem conveys the tension between devotion and freedom.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious · 44 words
First lines
Loose the flood, you shall find it patent, Gush after gush, reserved for you; Scarlet experiment! sceptic Thomas, Now, do you doubt that your bird was true?
What this Textopian page supports
Loyalty 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, Philosophical, Religious, Experimental
- Length: 44 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Loyalty by Emily Dickinson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Loyalty?
- How does this poem by Emily Dickinson fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Contract by Emily Dickinson
- Too Much by Emily Dickinson
- A Man by Emily Dickinson
- Waiting by Emily Dickinson
- Lost Faith by Emily Dickinson
- Aspiration by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, characteristic of poetry, with a focus on language and rhythm.
- Philosophical — The themes explore belief and skepticism, prompting philosophical reflection.
- Religious — References to 'sceptic Thomas' suggest religious undertones, alluding to biblical themes.
- Experimental — The work's abstract and metaphorical language aligns with experimental literature.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Philosophy · Mortality · Love · Loyalty · Faith · Spirituality · Nature · Symbolism · Imagery