Annotation Question
In these two poems Emily Dickinson takes up the subject of “truth”: how it is produced, what it means, etc. As you read through these poems, annotate one place in each where you see an interesting representation of this theme. What is interesting about it?
“This world is not conclusion”–(501)
by Emily Dickinson
This World is not Conclusion.
A Species stands beyond —
Invisible, as Music —
But positive, as Sound —
It beckons, and it baffles —
Philosophy — don’t know —
And through a Riddle, at the last —
Sagacity, must go —
To guess it, puzzles scholars —
To gain it, Men have borne
Contempt of Generations
And Crucifixion, shown —
Faith slips — and laughs, and rallies —
Blushes, if any see —
Plucks at a twig of Evidence —
And asks a Vane, the way —
Much Gesture, from the Pulpit —
Strong Hallelujahs roll —
Narcotics cannot still the Tooth
That nibbles at the soul —
Tell all the truth but tell it slant — (1263)
by Emily Dickinson
Tell all the truth but tell it slant —
Success in Circuit lies
Too bright for our infirm Delight
The Truth’s superb surprise
As Lightning to the Children eased
With explanation kind
The Truth must dazzle gradually
Or every man be blind —
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After reading “The world is not conclusion” By Emily Dickinson, what stood out to me were the last two lines
“Narcotics cannot still the tooth
That nibbles at the soul”
I think that was a very vague, but clever way to incorporate the use of narcotics but also informing that using doesn’t even make “it” better.
After reading “tell all the truth but tell it slant” By Emily Dickinson, first of all, the title stands out to me..lol. I also, think that is a vague, but great piece of advice to everyone! And the line
“Success in circuit lies”
Is a good representation of the theme because for example, if you really need a job, it may be in your best interest to bend the truth on a thing or two in order to satisfy the qualifications.