The Rat by Emily Dickinson (1891)
This poem explores the theme of mortality and the fleeting nature of life through the metaphor of a rat's existence. The speaker describes the rat's life as one of constant struggle and desperation, highlighting the harsh realities of survival in a world where death lurks around every corner. The poem also touches on the idea that even the most seemingly insignificant creatures are bound by the same forces of nature that govern human existence. The rat's fate is sealed, just like our own, and its life is marked by a sense of inevitability and finality. Through this imagery, the speaker invites the reader to contemplate their own mortality and the impermanence of all living things.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1891 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Allegory · 71 words
First lines
The rat is the concisest tenant.
He pays no rent, -- / Repudiates the obligation, / On schemes intent.
Balking our wit / To sound or circumvent, / Hate cannot harm / A foe so reticent.
Neither decree / Prohibits him, / Lawful as / Equilibrium.
What this Textopian page supports
The Rat is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emily Dickinson, dated 1891 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Emily Dickinson
- Date: 1891 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Allegory, Satire
- Length: 71 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and brevity, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential ideas about existence, obligation, and the nature of being, typical of philosophical literature.
- Allegory — The rat serves as a metaphor for deeper concepts, suggesting an allegorical interpretation.
- Satire — The work subtly critiques societal norms and obligations, aligning with satirical elements.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Nature Imagery · Symbolism · Mortality · Existentialism · Philosophy · Literary Symbol · Animal Imagery · Rat as Metaphor · Dark Humor