The Mountain by Emily Dickinson
This poem explores the idea of a mountain as a symbol of spiritual aspiration and the human desire for transcendence. The speaker describes the mountain as a challenge to be overcome, but also as a source of awe and wonder. The poem suggests that the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment is a lifelong journey, marked by moments of insight and understanding, but also by periods of darkness and uncertainty.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1847 · Genre: Poetry, Nature, Philosophical · 62 words
First lines
The mountain sat upon the plain In his eternal chair, His observation omnifold, His inquest everywhere.
The seasons prayed around his knees, Like children round a sire: Grandfather of the days is he, Of dawn the ancestor.
What this Textopian page supports
The Mountain 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, Nature, Philosophical, Symbolism
- Length: 62 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and imagery, characteristic of poetry.
- Nature — The central theme revolves around a mountain, emphasizing natural elements and the environment.
- Philosophical — The poem explores themes of time, eternity, and existence, which are common in philosophical literature.
- Symbolism — The mountain serves as a symbol for timelessness and wisdom, a key feature of symbolic literature.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Mountain · Solitude · Isolation · Meditation · Philosophy · Existentialism · Spirituality · Self-Discovery · Inner Journey · Symbolism