The Lonely House by Emily Dickinson
This collection of poetry explores themes of isolation, loneliness and the human condition. The poems often express a sense of disconnection from society and a longing for transcendence. They are characterized by their concise and enigmatic style, which adds to their mystique and complexity.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1847 · Genre: Poetry, Mystery, Gothic · 327 words
First lines
I know some lonely houses off the road A robber 'd like the look of, -- Wooden barred, And windows hanging low, Inviting to A portico, Where two could creep: One hand the tools, The other peep To make sure all's asleep. Old-fashioned eyes, Not easy to surprise!
How orderly the kitchen 'd look by night, With just a clock, -- But they could gag the tick, And mice won't bark; And so the walls don't tell, None will.
What this Textopian page supports
The Lonely House is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emily Dickinson, dated 1847 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: 1847 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Mystery, Gothic, Domestic Fiction
- Length: 327 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Lonely House by Emily Dickinson
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Lonely House?
- How does this poem by Emily Dickinson fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Bustle In A House by Emily Dickinson
- To Help Our Bleaker Parts by Emily Dickinson
- Unreturning by Emily Dickinson
- Waiting by Emily Dickinson
- Asleep by Emily Dickinson
- On The Bleakness Of My Lot by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Mystery — The poem describes a scene involving potential robbery and stealth, creating a sense of suspense and intrigue.
- Gothic — The themes of isolation, old-fashioned settings, and the eerie atmosphere contribute to a gothic tone.
- Domestic Fiction — The setting and elements like the kitchen and household items suggest a focus on domestic life.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature Imagery · Solitude · Loneliness · Isolation · Mortality · Existentialism · Philosophy · Spirituality · Imagery