Reticence by Emily Dickinson (1890)
The poem explores the theme of silence and restraint, where the speaker's emotions are suppressed, and they struggle to express themselves. The tone is melancholic and introspective, with a sense of longing for connection and understanding. The language is concise and enigmatic, reflecting the speaker's inner turmoil.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Metaphysical · 82 words
First lines
The reticent volcano keeps His never slumbering plan; Confided are his projects pink To no precarious man.
If nature will not tell the tale Jehovah told to her, Can human nature not survive Without a listener?
Admonished by her buckled lips Let every babbler be.
The only secret people keep Is Immortality.
What this Textopian page supports
Reticence 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, Metaphysical, Nature
- Length: 82 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
- The Lost Thought by Emily Dickinson
- The Bone That Has No Marrow by Emily Dickinson
- In A Library by Emily Dickinson
- Out Of The Morning by Emily Dickinson
- I Found The Phrase To Every Thought by Emily Dickinson
- A Syllable by Emily Dickinson
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 secrets, reflecting philosophical inquiry.
- Metaphysical — The poem delves into abstract concepts such as immortality and the divine, typical of metaphysical literature.
- Nature — The imagery and references to natural elements like volcanoes and nature suggest a nature genre.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature Imagery · Mystery · Silence · Solitude · Introspection · Philosophy · Existentialism · Spirituality · Death