Old-Fashioned by Emily Dickinson
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and longing for a past era. The speaker reflects on the passing of time and how it has changed people's values and behaviors. They lament the loss of innocence and simplicity, and express a desire to return to a bygone age when life was more genuine and authentic.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Nature · 235 words
First lines
Arcturus is his other name, -- I'd rather call him star!
It's so unkind of science To go and interfere!
I pull a flower from the woods, -- A monster with a glass Computes the stamens in a breath, And has her in a class.
Whereas I took the butterfly Aforetime in my hat, He sits erect in cabinets, The clover-bells forgot.
What this Textopian page supports
Old-Fashioned 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, Nature, Religious, Romantic
- Length: 235 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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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 and the nature of science versus nature, reflecting philosophical inquiry.
- Nature — The poem references natural elements like stars, flowers, and butterflies, emphasizing a connection to nature.
- Religious — There are references to heaven and spiritual themes, indicating a religious or spiritual dimension.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Love · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Metaphor · Personification · Free Verse · American Literature · 19th Century · Feminist