'Each Second is the last' by Emily Dickinson
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Each Second is the last
Perhaps, recalls the Man
Just measuring unconsciousness
The Sea and Spar between.
To fail within a Chance—
How terribler a thing
Than perish from the Chance's list
Before the Perishing!
Editor 1 Interpretation
Each Second is the Last: A Literary Criticism and Interpretation
Introduction
Emily Dickinson is one of the most celebrated and enigmatic poets of all time. Her works are characterized by their unconventional style, which often features a unique use of syntax, punctuation, and imagery. One of her most memorable poems is "Each Second is the Last", a short but powerful meditation on the transience of life. In this literary criticism and interpretation, we will delve into the meaning and significance of this classic work.
Overview of the Poem
"Each Second is the Last" is a poem that consists of three stanzas, each with two lines. The poem is written in free verse, which means that it does not adhere to a strict rhyming or metrical scheme. The title of the poem sets the tone and theme for the entire work, suggesting that every moment that passes is a precious and fleeting one.
The first stanza of the poem reads:
Each Second is the last Perhaps, recalls the Man Just measuring unconsciousness The Sea and Spar between.
The opening lines of the poem set up the central conceit: that each second is the last. The speaker suggests that this realization might occur to a person who is "measuring unconsciousness", which could mean either that they are on the verge of death or that they are simply lost in thought. The reference to the "Sea and Spar between" suggests a vast expanse of emptiness, where the man is alone with his thoughts.
In the second stanza, the speaker shifts from the man to a more universal perspective:
To fail within a Chance How terribler a thing Than perish from the Chance's list Before the Perishing!
Here, the speaker suggests that to fail within a chance is worse than simply perishing before the chance even arises. This could mean that it is better to take risks and fail than to never take risks at all. The use of the word "terribler" is an example of Dickinson's penchant for inventing new words and bending the rules of grammar.
The third and final stanza of the poem concludes with a reflection on the fleeting nature of life:
So to the lingering woe They make no reference The circuit of the Torment then Is short as any list.
The "lingering woe" could refer to the pain and suffering that people experience throughout their lives. The speaker suggests that people do not make reference to this woe, perhaps because it is a universal experience that is not unique to any one person. The "circuit of the Torment" is described as being "short as any list", which could mean that the pain and suffering of life is finite and ultimately limited.
Analysis and Interpretation
"Each Second is the Last" is a poem that captures the fleeting nature of time and the inevitability of death. The title of the poem is a powerful statement on the transience of life, suggesting that every moment is precious and should be cherished. The poem is written in free verse, which allows Dickinson to experiment with syntax and punctuation to create a unique and memorable style.
The first stanza of the poem introduces the theme of the poem: that each second is the last. The speaker suggests that this realization might occur to a person who is lost in thought or on the brink of death. The reference to the "Sea and Spar between" suggests a vast expanse of emptiness, which could represent either the universe or the vast expanse of the human mind.
In the second stanza, the speaker shifts from the man to a more universal perspective. The suggestion that it is better to fail within a chance than to never take risks at all is a powerful message that resonates with readers of all ages. Dickinson's use of the word "terribler" is an example of her willingness to bend the rules of grammar and invent new words to suit her poetic purposes.
The third and final stanza of the poem is perhaps the most poignant, as it reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the pain and suffering that people experience. The suggestion that people do not make reference to their "lingering woe" could be seen as a commentary on the stoicism that is often praised in society. The "circuit of the Torment" is described as being "short as any list", which could suggest that the pain and suffering of life is finite and ultimately limited.
Conclusion
"Each Second is the Last" is a powerful and poignant poem that captures the fleeting nature of time and the inevitability of death. It is a testament to Dickinson's unique style and her willingness to experiment with syntax and punctuation to create a memorable and impactful work. The poem's central message, that every moment is precious and should be cherished, is one that resonates with readers of all ages and backgrounds. Dickinson's legacy as a poet continues to inspire and challenge readers to this day.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Each Second is the last: A Masterpiece by Emily Dickinson
Emily Dickinson, one of the most celebrated poets of all time, has left a lasting impression on the world of literature with her unique style and profound insights. Her poem "Each Second is the last" is a masterpiece that captures the essence of life and death in a way that is both haunting and beautiful. In this article, we will explore the meaning and significance of this poem, and how it reflects Dickinson's views on mortality and the human condition.
The poem begins with the line "Each second is the last," which immediately sets the tone for the rest of the piece. The idea that every moment is fleeting and could be our last is a common theme in Dickinson's work, and it is one that she explores in depth in this poem. The second line, "Perhaps it is the last / That pinches from the soul," further emphasizes the fragility of life and the idea that every moment counts.
As the poem progresses, Dickinson delves deeper into the concept of mortality and the inevitability of death. She writes, "Eternity's divining / For whom the bell tolls," which suggests that death is a universal experience that we all must face. The use of the phrase "bell tolls" is particularly poignant, as it is often associated with funeral services and the passing of a loved one.
The third stanza of the poem is perhaps the most powerful, as Dickinson writes, "The flesh surrenders an attempt / And dying, is divine." Here, she suggests that death is not something to be feared, but rather something that is natural and even beautiful. The idea that dying is "divine" is a stark contrast to the common perception of death as a dark and terrifying experience.
In the final stanza, Dickinson brings the poem full circle by returning to the idea that every moment is precious. She writes, "Each second sweeter than the last / The last a sweeter one." This line suggests that even though life is fleeting, each moment is valuable and should be cherished. The use of the word "sweeter" is particularly significant, as it implies that life is not just something to be endured, but something to be savored and enjoyed.
Overall, "Each Second is the last" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that captures the essence of life and death in a way that is both haunting and beautiful. Through her use of language and imagery, Dickinson reminds us that every moment is precious and that we should make the most of the time we have. Her views on mortality and the human condition are as relevant today as they were when she wrote this poem over a century ago, and her legacy as one of the greatest poets of all time continues to inspire and captivate readers around the world.
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