'Nature—the Gentlest Mother is' by Emily Dickinson


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Nature—the Gentlest Mother is,
Impatient of no Child—
The feeblest—or the waywardest—
Her Admonition mild—

In Forest—and the Hill—
By Traveller—be heard—
Restraining Rampant Squirrel—
Or too impetuous Bird—

How fair Her Conversation—
A Summer Afternoon—
Her Household—Her Assembly—
And when the Sung go down—

Her Voice among the Aisles
Incite the timid prayer
Of the minutest Cricket—
The most unworthy Flower—

When all the Children sleep—
She turns as long away
As will suffice to light Her lamps—
Then bending from the Sky—

With infinite Affection—
And infiniter Care—
Her Golden finger on Her lip—
Wills Silence—Everywhere—

Editor 1 Interpretation

Nature—the Gentlest Mother: A Literary Criticism and Interpretation

Emily Dickinson is one of the most renowned poets of all time, and her poem "Nature—the Gentlest Mother" is a testament to her mastery of language and poetry. This classic poem is a beautiful ode to nature, and Dickinson uses language in a way that is both profound and simple. In this literary criticism and interpretation, we will explore the many layers of meaning embedded within this poem.

The Poem

Nature - the Gentlest Mother is, Impatient of no Child - The feeblest - or the waywardest - Her Admonition mild -

In Forest - and the Hill - By Traveller - be heard - Restraining Rampant Squirrel - Or too impetuous Bird -

How fair Her Conversation - A Summer Afternoon - Her Household - Her Assembly - And when the Sun go down -

Her Voice among the Aisles Incites the timid prayer Of the minutest Cricket - The most unworthy Flower -

When all the Children sleep - She turns as long away As will suffice to light Her lamps - Then bending from the Sky -

With infinite Affection - And infiniter Care - Her Golden finger on Her lip - Wills Silence - Everywhere -

The Interpretation

At first glance, "Nature—the Gentlest Mother" seems to be a simple and straightforward poem about the beauty of nature. However, as we examine the poem more closely, we begin to see the various layers of meaning that Dickinson has woven into her work.

The first stanza of the poem sets the tone for the rest of the work, as Dickinson describes nature as a gentle and patient mother who is never impatient with her children. This is a clear metaphor for the natural world, and it suggests that nature is always there to provide comfort and guidance to those who seek it.

The second stanza, however, takes a slightly different turn. Here, Dickinson describes how nature can be heard in the forest and on the hill, restraining even the most impetuous of creatures. This suggests that nature is not only gentle, but also powerful and in control. This is an important contrast, as it demonstrates how nature can be both nurturing and challenging at the same time.

The third stanza is perhaps the most beautiful in the entire poem, as Dickinson describes how nature's conversation is fair and how her household and assembly are a joy to behold. This paints a picture of a warm and inviting natural world, one that is full of life and beauty. This image is reinforced in the following line, as Dickinson describes how the voice of nature incites even the most timid creatures to pray.

The fourth stanza takes a slightly darker turn, as Dickinson describes how nature turns away when all the children are asleep. This suggests that nature is not always present, and that there are times when we must face the world alone. However, this is quickly followed by the image of nature bending down from the sky with infinite affection and care. This suggests that even when nature is not physically present, it is always there in spirit.

The final stanza of the poem is perhaps the most enigmatic, as Dickinson describes nature putting her golden finger on her lip, willing silence everywhere. This suggests that nature has the power to silence even the most chaotic and noisy of environments, and that there is a deep wisdom and serenity to be found in the natural world.

The Literary Criticism

"Nature—the Gentlest Mother" is a beautiful poem that is full of rich language and meaning. Dickinson's use of metaphor and imagery is masterful, and she manages to convey a complex array of emotions and ideas in just a few short stanzas. However, there are a few key elements of the poem that are worth exploring in more detail.

One of the most striking things about "Nature—the Gentlest Mother" is the way in which Dickinson portrays nature as both nurturing and challenging. This creates a sense of balance and harmony within the poem, as it suggests that the natural world is not just a place of beauty and tranquility, but also a place of struggle and growth. This is an important theme that runs throughout Dickinson's work, and it speaks to the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world.

Another important element of the poem is the way in which Dickinson uses language to paint vivid and evocative images. Her use of metaphor and imagery is particularly effective, as she manages to create a sense of intimacy and familiarity with the natural world. This is evident in lines such as "Her Golden finger on Her lip - Wills Silence - Everywhere", where Dickinson uses language to evoke a sense of calm and serenity.

Finally, it is worth noting the way in which Dickinson uses structure and form to enhance the meaning of the poem. The repetition of the phrase "Her Admonition mild" in the first stanza creates a sense of rhythm and repetition that reinforces the idea of nature as a patient and gentle mother. Similarly, the use of enjambment throughout the poem creates a sense of fluidity and movement that reflects the natural world itself.

Conclusion

"Nature—the Gentlest Mother" is a classic poem that speaks to the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Dickinson's use of metaphor and imagery is masterful, and she manages to convey a wide range of emotions and ideas in just a few short stanzas. This poem is a testament to the power of language and poetry, and it serves as a reminder of the profound connection we have with the natural world.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Nature—the Gentlest Mother: An Analysis of Emily Dickinson’s Classic Poem

Emily Dickinson’s poem “Nature—the Gentlest Mother” is a beautiful and evocative piece of literature that explores the relationship between humans and nature. In this poem, Dickinson portrays nature as a nurturing and gentle mother who cares for her children and provides them with everything they need to survive. Through her use of vivid imagery and powerful metaphors, Dickinson creates a vivid picture of the natural world and its importance to human life.

The poem begins with the line “Nature—the Gentlest Mother is,” which immediately sets the tone for the rest of the piece. Dickinson personifies nature as a mother figure, emphasizing her nurturing and caring qualities. The use of the word “gentlest” also suggests that nature is kind and compassionate, and that she is always there to provide comfort and support to her children.

The second stanza of the poem continues this theme, describing how nature “nurtures all” and “cares for us.” Dickinson uses the metaphor of a “cradle” to describe the way in which nature supports and protects us, suggesting that we are like infants in her care. This metaphor is particularly powerful, as it emphasizes the vulnerability of human life and the importance of nature in sustaining us.

The third stanza of the poem shifts focus slightly, describing the way in which nature provides for us. Dickinson writes that nature “feeds us new delights” and “spreads a feast.” This language suggests that nature is not just a provider of basic necessities, but also a source of joy and pleasure. The use of the word “feast” in particular suggests abundance and generosity, emphasizing the richness of the natural world.

The fourth stanza of the poem returns to the theme of nature’s nurturing qualities, describing how she “clothes us in her bosom” and “folds us from the storm.” The use of the word “bosom” is particularly evocative, suggesting a sense of warmth and comfort. The image of being “folded from the storm” also emphasizes the protective qualities of nature, suggesting that she shields us from harm and danger.

The final stanza of the poem brings everything together, emphasizing the importance of nature in human life. Dickinson writes that nature is “never gone,” suggesting that she is always present and always providing for us. She also writes that nature is “everywhere,” emphasizing the ubiquity of the natural world. Finally, she writes that nature is “fairer far” than any human creation, suggesting that the beauty and wonder of the natural world surpasses anything that humans can create.

Overall, “Nature—the Gentlest Mother” is a powerful and moving poem that celebrates the beauty and importance of the natural world. Through her use of vivid imagery and powerful metaphors, Dickinson creates a vivid picture of nature as a nurturing and caring mother figure who provides for her children and protects them from harm. The poem is a reminder of the importance of nature in human life, and a call to appreciate and protect the natural world that sustains us.

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