dickinson hope is the thing with feathers

A Legacy of InspirationĮmily Dickinson’s legacy as a poet and writer continues to inspire and influence generations of readers. No matter how difficult our situation may be, hope can help us persevere and find a way forward. The Strength of HopeĪs the poem concludes, Dickinson writes, “And sore must be the storm- that could abash the little bird.” This line suggests that hope is strong enough to withstand even the most challenging of circumstances. Just like a bird can find shelter in a strong wind, hope can give us the strength to weather any storm.

It can be the unspoken comfort that we need to carry on.Īnother powerful image in the poem is the line, “And sweetest in the gale is heard.” This line suggests that hope is most needed and most comforting during the most difficult times. Dickinson writes, “And sings the tune without the words, and never stops at all.” This passage suggests that hope can be felt even in the absence of words. GradeSaver, 15 February 2022 Web.The poem also speaks to the idea that hope can be found even in the darkest of times. 'Hope is the Thing with Feathers Symbols, Allegory and Motifs'. Next Section Slant Rhyme: An Overview Previous Section Stanza 3 Summary and Analysis Buy Study Guide How To Cite in MLA Format Melendez, John. In the text, hope is shown to be a selfless thing that only grows strong amidst difficulty, providing solace to those who need it most. As such, the 'thing with feathers' in this poem represents hope, human endurance, and persistence during times of adversity. In this poem, Dickinson describes the concept of 'hope' as being a bird. These instances are framed in the poem as tests of the strength of individual hope. In the overall metaphor of the poem, the storm symbolizes hardships humans encounter in their everyday lives. The storm (Symbol)ĭickinson refers to a 'storm' in the poem, writing that the bird is not discouraged by the adverse weather conditions.

Dickinson uses this image of the singing bird to show the persistence of hope and how it can endure hard times. Despite its encounter with the extreme weather of gales and storms, it carries on singing. The bird's song represents its endurance and strength. Birds are also often used as a symbol of freedom and hope in literature. It is likely an allusion to Christian symbolism and the image of the dove, which is used in the Bible as an icon of peace. Dickinson's use of bird symbolism in this poem has some cultural significance.

Dickinson hope is the thing with feathers