
Time's Lesson by Emily Dickinson
The poem explores the theme of time and its effects on human experience. It describes how time can be both a teacher and a thief, taking away youth and vitality while imparting wisdom and insight. The speaker reflects on the passing of time, noting how it brings about change and loss, but also allows for growth and understanding.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Psychological · 68 words
First lines
Mine enemy is growing old, -- I have at last revenge.
The palate of the hate departs; If any would avenge, --
Let him be quick, the viand flits, It is a faded meat.
Anger as soon as fed is dead; 'T is starving makes it fat.
What this Textopian page supports
Time's Lesson 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
- Length: 68 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on meter and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore the nature of revenge and the passage of time, prompting reflection on human emotions and morality.
- Psychological — The poem delves into the psychological aspects of anger and revenge, examining how these emotions evolve over time.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Philosophy · Existentialism · Mortality · Time · Nature · Symbolism · Imagery · Free Verse · Spirituality
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