Too Late by Emily Dickinson (1890)
The poem explores the theme of regret and longing for a lost opportunity. The speaker reflects on a moment that has passed, realizing too late that it was a chance to connect with someone or something meaningful. The tone is melancholic and introspective, with a sense of resignation and acceptance.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Elegy · 166 words
First lines
Delayed till she had ceased to know, Delayed till in its vest of snow Her loving bosom lay. An hour behind the fleeting breath, Later by just an hour than death, -- Oh, lagging yesterday!
Could she have guessed that it would be; Could but a crier of the glee Have climbed the distant hill; Had not the bliss so slow a pace, -- Who knows but this surrendered face Were undefeated still?
Oh, if there may departing be Any forgot by victory In her imperial round, Show them this meek apparelled thing, That could not stop to be a king, Doubtful if it be crowned!
What this Textopian page supports
Too Late 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, Lyric, Elegy, Philosophical, Romantic
- Length: 166 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
- Childish Griefs by Emily Dickinson
- As By The Dead We Love To Sit by Emily Dickinson
- Waiting by Emily Dickinson
- Lost Joy by Emily Dickinson
- I Gained It So by Emily Dickinson
- Heart Not So Heavy As Mine by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and reflections, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Elegy — Themes of death and mourning are central, aligning with the elegiac tradition.
- Philosophical — The poem contemplates existential themes such as time, death, and the nature of victory.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Mortality · Loss · Regret · Longing · Nature Imagery · Symbolism · Existential Crisis · Philosophical Themes · Spirituality