Suspense by Emily Dickinson (1890)
The poem explores the tension between life and death, with the speaker describing a moment of suspense where they are suspended between two states. The poem's central image is that of a bird perched on a wire, unable to fly or fall. This image represents the speaker's own state of being, caught between the desire for freedom and the fear of falling into nothingness. Throughout the poem, the speaker uses imagery and metaphor to convey the sense of suspense and uncertainty. The use of words like "tension" and "suspended" creates a sense of physical and emotional strain. The poem's tone is one of quiet contemplation, with the speaker reflecting on their own mortality and the fleeting nature of life.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Psychological · 64 words
First lines
Elysium is as far as to / The very nearest room, / If in that room a friend await / Felicity or doom.
What fortitude the soul contains, / That it can so endure / The accent of a coming foot, / The opening of a door!
What this Textopian page supports
Suspense 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, Psychological, Mystery
- Length: 64 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
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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 the soul and the anticipation of fate.
- Psychological — The text delves into the emotional and mental fortitude required to face uncertainty and expectation.
- Mystery — The suspenseful tone and the unknown outcome of the awaited event contribute to a sense of mystery.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Mystery · Emotional Turmoil · Inner Conflict · Psychological Insight · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Free Verse · Existential Crisis