'Did we disobey Him?' by Emily Dickinson


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Did we disobey Him?
Just one time!
Charged us to forget Him—
But we couldn't learn!

Were Himself—such a Dunce—
What would we—do?
Love the dull lad—best—
Oh, wouldn't you?

Editor 1 Interpretation

Did we disobey Him? by Emily Dickinson

Emily Dickinson was a prolific poet who authored over 1,800 poems, with only a few published during her lifetime. Her style of poetry, with its short lines and unorthodox use of punctuation and capitalization, has made her one of the most celebrated poets of the 19th century. One of her lesser-known works is the poem "Did we disobey Him?" which explores the theme of sin and redemption.

The Poem

Did we disobey Him? Who was it disobeyed? Too far from his environ, Too lofty for our aid.

The loss of Him is so immense, We wonder if He see— So infinite the anguish We question where it be.

His counsellor the morning, His chamber is the noon, His pastime is the table, And his envoys, bloom.

Analysis

The poem begins with a question, "Did we disobey Him?" This question sets the tone for the poem and suggests that the speaker is addressing a higher power. The use of the pronoun "we" suggests that the speaker is not alone and that others may have also disobeyed this higher power. The poem then asks, "Who was it disobeyed?" which implies that the speaker is not sure who is responsible for disobeying this higher power. This ambiguity sets up the tension in the poem and leaves the reader wondering who this higher power is and what laws or rules were broken.

The second stanza of the poem emphasizes the magnitude of the loss of this higher power. The use of the word "so" before "immense" and "infinite" suggests that the loss is almost too much to bear. This loss is so great that the speaker questions whether this higher power even sees it. This questioning adds to the sense of despair and hopelessness that permeates the poem.

The third stanza of the poem describes the daily routine of this higher power. The use of the word "counsellor" to describe the morning implies that this higher power is in control of the day. The use of the word "chamber" to describe the noon suggests that this higher power is in a position of power and authority. The use of the word "pastime" to describe the table is interesting because it implies that this higher power enjoys food and is human-like. The use of the word "envoys" to describe the bloom suggests that this higher power has a connection to nature.

Overall, the poem is a meditation on sin and redemption. The speaker is grappling with the idea that they have disobeyed a higher power and are now suffering the consequences. The poem suggests that this higher power is omnipotent and controls the daily routine of the world. The poem ultimately leaves the reader with more questions than answers and invites the reader to ponder the nature of sin and redemption.

Interpretation

The poem can be interpreted in a number of different ways, but one possible interpretation is that it is a religious poem that explores the concept of sin and redemption. The use of the word "disobeyed" suggests that this higher power has created rules or laws that have been broken. The use of the word "anguish" suggests that the consequences of breaking these rules or laws are severe. The poem suggests that this higher power is all-powerful and in control of the world, which implies that this higher power has the power to forgive sins.

Another possible interpretation of the poem is that it is a meditation on the human condition. The use of the word "we" implies that the speaker is not alone and that others may have also disobeyed this higher power. This suggests that sin is a universal human experience. The poem also suggests that the loss of this higher power is so great that it is almost too much to bear. This implies that the human experience is one of loss and suffering.

Conclusion

"Did we disobey Him?" is a powerful poem that explores the theme of sin and redemption. The use of questions and ambiguous language creates a sense of tension and uncertainty that leaves the reader pondering the deeper meaning of the poem. The overall message of the poem is one of despair and hopelessness, but it also suggests that there is a higher power that can forgive sins and bring redemption. This makes the poem a powerful meditation on the human condition and the nature of sin and redemption.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Did we disobey Him? A Classic Poem by Emily Dickinson

Emily Dickinson, one of the greatest poets of all time, wrote a poem titled "Did we disobey Him?" that has captured the hearts and minds of readers for generations. This poem is a powerful reflection on the nature of sin and disobedience, and it offers a unique perspective on the relationship between humanity and God.

At its core, "Did we disobey Him?" is a poem about the consequences of sin. Dickinson begins by asking a simple question: "Did we disobey Him?" This question is a powerful one, as it forces the reader to consider their own actions and the ways in which they may have fallen short of God's expectations.

The poem then goes on to explore the consequences of sin, both in this life and in the afterlife. Dickinson writes, "We cannot die, we cannot live, / But sink in the abyss." This line is a powerful reminder that sin has consequences, and that those consequences can be both physical and spiritual.

However, the poem also offers a glimmer of hope. Dickinson writes, "Yet, when we seem to try / To reach His further house, / Our lifeless feet / Refuse to touch the road." This line suggests that even though we may be trapped in sin, we still have the ability to seek redemption and to try to reach God's "further house."

One of the most striking aspects of "Did we disobey Him?" is its use of language. Dickinson's poetry is known for its unique style and structure, and this poem is no exception. The poem is written in Dickinson's signature short, staccato lines, which give it a sense of urgency and intensity.

In addition, the poem is full of powerful metaphors and imagery. For example, Dickinson writes, "We cannot die, we cannot live, / But sink in the abyss." This metaphorical language helps to convey the weight and gravity of sin, and it adds to the poem's overall impact.

Another interesting aspect of "Did we disobey Him?" is its religious themes. Dickinson was known for her exploration of religious ideas and concepts, and this poem is no exception. The poem is a powerful reflection on the nature of sin and the relationship between humanity and God.

Overall, "Did we disobey Him?" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that offers a unique perspective on the nature of sin and disobedience. Through its use of language, imagery, and religious themes, the poem forces the reader to consider their own actions and the ways in which they may have fallen short of God's expectations. It is a testament to Dickinson's skill as a poet, and it remains a classic work of literature to this day.

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