Superfluous were the Sun by Emily Dickinson
The poem explores themes of mortality and the fleeting nature of life. The speaker describes the sun's descent into darkness, symbolizing the inevitability of death. The poem also touches on the idea that even in death, there can be a sense of beauty and transcendence. The tone is contemplative and melancholic, with a focus on the passing of time and the impermanence of all things.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic · 92 words
First lines
Superfluous were the sun / When excellence is dead; / He were superfluous every day, / For every day is said
That syllable whose faith / Just saves it from despair, / And whose 'I'll meet you' hesitates / If love inquire, 'Where?'
Upon his dateless fame / Our periods may lie, / As stars that drop anonymous / From an abundant sky.
What this Textopian page supports
Superfluous were the Sun 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, Romantic, Metaphysical
- Length: 92 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential concepts such as the nature of excellence and the passage of time.
- Romantic — The poem touches on themes of love and emotional connection, as seen in the lines about meeting and inquiry of love.
- Metaphysical — The work delves into abstract ideas and the metaphysical significance of fame and existence.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature Imagery · Death and Mortality · Existentialism · Philosophy · Spirituality · Mortality · Life Cycle · Seasonal Change · Symbolism