Prayer by Emily Dickinson (1890)
The poem explores the idea of prayer as a means to transcend the limitations of human existence and connect with something greater than oneself. It suggests that prayer can be a way to escape the constraints of time and space, allowing the speaker to experience a sense of eternity. The poem's tone is contemplative and introspective, with the speaker reflecting on the nature of prayer and its relationship to the divine. The language is simple yet powerful, conveying a sense of longing and yearning for transcendence. Throughout the poem, the speaker grapples with the idea that prayer can be both a source of comfort and a reminder of one's own mortality. Ultimately, the poem presents a nuanced and complex view of prayer as a means to connect with something greater than oneself, while also acknowledging its limitations and uncertainties.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical · 56 words
First lines
Prayer is the little implement Through which men reach Where presence is denied them.
They fling their speech
By means of it in God's ear; If then He hear, This sums the apparatus Comprised in prayer.
What this Textopian page supports
Prayer 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, Religious, Philosophical
- Length: 56 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
- Faith Is A Fine Invention by Emily Dickinson
- A Prayer by Emily Dickinson
- Lost Faith by Emily Dickinson
- The Journey by Emily Dickinson
- Joy In Death by Emily Dickinson
- A Dew Sufficed Itself by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing poetic devices such as meter and rhyme.
- Religious — The theme revolves around the concept of prayer and communication with a divine entity.
- Philosophical — The poem explores abstract ideas about presence, communication, and the nature of divine interaction.
Tags
Poetry · Spirituality · Faith · Mortality · Existentialism · Philosophy · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Metaphor · Free Verse · American Literature