Triumph by Emily Dickinson (1890)
This poem explores the theme of triumph through a series of paradoxical statements that highlight the complexities and contradictions inherent to human experience. The speaker describes a triumphant figure who has achieved success but is now isolated, alone in their victory. This isolation serves to underscore the idea that true triumph often comes at a cost, one that can be isolating and lonely. Throughout the poem, the speaker employs imagery and metaphor to convey the idea that triumph is not just a state of being, but also a process. The figure's journey is likened to a "procession" that is both grand and solemn, emphasizing the idea that true triumph requires dedication and perseverance. The poem also touches on the theme of mortality, suggesting that even in the midst of triumph, one's time is limited and fleeting. This serves to underscore the idea that true triumph must be savored and appreciated while it can be, as it will not last forever. Ultimately, the poem presents a nuanced and complex view of triumph, one that acknowledges both its beauty and its costs.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious · 126 words
First lines
Triumph may be of several kinds.
There 's triumph in the room When that old imperator, Death, By faith is overcome.
There 's triumph of the finer mind When truth, affronted long, Advances calm to her supreme, Her God her only throng.
A triumph when temptation's bribe Is slowly handed back, One eye upon the heaven renounced And one upon the rack.
What this Textopian page supports
Triumph 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, Religious, Inspirational
- Length: 126 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
- Immortal Is An Ample Word by Emily Dickinson
- Not Any Higher Stands The Grave by Emily Dickinson
- I Died For Beauty But Was Scarce by Emily Dickinson
- That Such Have Died Enables Us by Emily Dickinson
- Aspiration by Emily Dickinson
- The Martyrs by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep philosophical concepts such as death, truth, and moral integrity.
- Religious — References to faith, God, and Jehovah indicate religious undertones.
- Inspirational — The text discusses overcoming challenges and moral victories, which are common in inspirational literature.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Victorian Era · Mortality · Nature · Spirituality · Existentialism · Philosophy · Death · Life · Hope · Faith