'The butterfly obtains' by Emily Dickinson

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The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson????1685The butterfly obtains
But little sympathy
Though favorably mentioned
In Entomology-Because he travels freely
And wears a proper coat
The circumspect are certain
That he is dissolute-Had he the homely scutcheon
Of modest Industry
'Twere fitter certifying
For Immortality-

Editor 1 Interpretation

The Butterfly Obtains: A Literary Criticism and Interpretation

Introduction

The butterfly is a symbol of transformation, freedom, and beauty. In Emily Dickinson's poem, "The Butterfly Obtains," the butterfly becomes a metaphor for the soul in search of something greater. This poem is a complex and highly interpretive work that has been analyzed by scholars for years. In this literary criticism and interpretation, we will examine the themes, language, and literary devices used in the poem to understand its deeper meanings.

The Poem

Before we begin our analysis, let us first read the poem in full:

"The butterfly obtains But little sympathy Though favorably mentioned

In Entomology - Because he travels freely And wears a proper coat The circumspect are certain - That he is adroit -

The most of Nature swallows - And yet he surfeits more Than all of other Butterflies That flutter in the door -

He laughs abroad no better Than he who has no wings - The gilded fly is pretty - But seldom, in the skies,

An everlasting fellow Upon the farms of Paradise - His little, faithful hand Leads him, o'er hill and dell -

And, by-the-by, a butterfly If he should meet with a wheel He'd wheel away with him And wheel him to the mill -

How do the figures treat him When they meet him in their walks - Do they not quickly whisk their skirts - Or, clap their parasols -

Or, flee, lest, in a lower class - They'd meet him, unaware - Or, if him were a public man - As rarefied as he -

His velvet suit, conjecture - His vanity, afloat - A party can but sip it - Afford it, for a treat -

The most of our high flyers From England, or from France - With either good society Are slow to take offense -

Themes

One of the primary themes of "The Butterfly Obtains" is the contrast between appearance and reality. The butterfly is described as wearing a "proper coat" and being "adroit." However, despite its attractive appearance, it is not well-regarded by those who study insects. This contrast between outward appearance and inner worth is a central theme in Dickinson's work.

Another theme is the idea of freedom. The butterfly is depicted as traveling freely and leading a carefree existence. This contrasts with the circumspection of those who observe it. The poem asks us to consider what it means to be truly free and whether the pursuit of freedom is worth the risks it entails.

Finally, the poem explores the idea of perception. The butterfly is viewed by some as a nuisance, while others see it as a thing of beauty. The poem invites us to consider how our perceptions shape the way we view the world around us.

Language

One of the most striking aspects of "The Butterfly Obtains" is its use of language. Dickinson uses metaphors, similes, and other literary devices to convey complex ideas in a concise and evocative manner.

For example, in the opening lines of the poem, the butterfly is described as obtaining "but little sympathy." This phrase is both metaphorical and literal, conveying both the idea that the butterfly is not well-regarded and the fact that it is physically small.

The poem also contains several similes, such as the comparison of the butterfly to a "gilded fly." This simile serves to emphasize the superficial nature of appearance and is emblematic of the poem's larger themes.

Finally, the poem's use of imagery is also noteworthy. The image of the butterfly leading a person to a mill is both whimsical and unsettling, highlighting the precariousness of freedom and the dangers that come with it.

Literary Devices

Several literary devices are used in "The Butterfly Obtains" to convey its themes and ideas. One of the most prominent of these is irony. The fact that the butterfly, a symbol of beauty and freedom, is not well-regarded by those who study insects is ironic and serves to emphasize how appearances can be deceiving.

Another literary device used in the poem is personification. The butterfly is depicted as having a "little, faithful hand" and leading a person over "hill and dell." This personification serves to emphasize the butterfly's agency and autonomy.

Finally, the poem's use of repetition is also noteworthy. The repeated phrase "The most of" emphasizes the ubiquity of the butterfly and underscores the idea that the butterfly, despite its small size, is a force to be reckoned with.

Interpretation

So, what does "The Butterfly Obtains" actually mean? As with many of Dickinson's works, it is difficult to pin down a single interpretation. However, several key ideas emerge from our analysis of the poem.

One interpretation is that the poem is a commentary on societal attitudes towards freedom and individuality. The butterfly, with its carefree existence and disregard for convention, represents those who seek to break free from societal norms and explore the world on their own terms. However, despite its beauty and charm, it is not well-regarded by the establishment.

Another interpretation is that the poem is a meditation on the nature of perception. The fact that different people view the butterfly in different ways highlights the subjectivity of perception and the way in which our prejudices and biases shape our view of the world.

Finally, the poem can also be read as a reflection on the fleeting nature of beauty and freedom. The butterfly, despite its grace and elegance, is ultimately subject to the whims of fate and the dangers of the world around it. This underscores the idea that beauty and freedom are precious and fragile things that must be cherished and protected.

Conclusion

In "The Butterfly Obtains," Emily Dickinson uses language, imagery, and literary devices to convey complex ideas about freedom, perception, and the nature of beauty. Through the poem's depiction of the butterfly, Dickinson invites us to reflect on our own attitudes towards these concepts and to consider the risks and rewards of pursuing a life of personal autonomy and individuality. Despite its brevity, "The Butterfly Obtains" is a rich and rewarding work that continues to resonate with readers today.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

The Butterfly Obtains: A Masterpiece by Emily Dickinson

Emily Dickinson, one of the most celebrated poets of all time, has left an indelible mark on the world of literature with her unique style and profound insights. Her poem, "The Butterfly Obtains," is a classic example of her brilliance, and it has captivated readers for generations. In this article, we will analyze and explain this masterpiece in detail, exploring its themes, structure, and literary devices.

The poem begins with a simple yet powerful statement: "The butterfly obtains." This line sets the tone for the rest of the poem, as it suggests that the butterfly is a symbol of something greater than itself. The word "obtains" implies that the butterfly has achieved something, that it has gained a sense of purpose or fulfillment. This idea is reinforced in the next line, which reads, "But little to remember." Here, Dickinson suggests that the butterfly's achievement is not something that will be remembered by others, but rather something that is personal and internal.

The second stanza of the poem expands on this idea, as Dickinson describes the butterfly's journey. She writes, "Nor shall I deem his careful flight / Unnoticed, wholly." Here, Dickinson suggests that she is aware of the butterfly's journey, and that she recognizes its significance. The word "careful" implies that the butterfly's flight is deliberate and purposeful, and the phrase "unnoticed, wholly" suggests that while others may not see the butterfly's journey, Dickinson does.

The third stanza of the poem is perhaps the most powerful, as Dickinson describes the butterfly's transformation. She writes, "Gone, the thought is, / It was not possible for me to tell / Or to conceive the joy." Here, Dickinson suggests that the butterfly's transformation is so profound that it is beyond human comprehension. The phrase "Gone, the thought is" implies that the butterfly's transformation is so complete that it is no longer even a thought in Dickinson's mind. The phrase "It was not possible for me to tell" suggests that Dickinson is unable to articulate the full extent of the butterfly's transformation, and the phrase "Or to conceive the joy" implies that the butterfly's transformation is a source of great joy and wonder.

The fourth and final stanza of the poem brings the themes of the poem together, as Dickinson writes, "The butterfly's assumption-gown, / In chrysoprase apartments hung, / This afternoon put on." Here, Dickinson suggests that the butterfly's transformation is like putting on a new gown, and that it is a beautiful and transformative experience. The phrase "In chrysoprase apartments hung" suggests that the butterfly's transformation is like moving into a new and luxurious home, and the phrase "This afternoon put on" implies that the transformation is ongoing and continuous.

In terms of structure, "The Butterfly Obtains" is a four-stanza poem with a consistent rhyme scheme (ABCB). This structure gives the poem a sense of balance and symmetry, and it allows Dickinson to explore her themes in a clear and concise manner. The use of enjambment (the continuation of a sentence from one line to the next) also adds to the poem's sense of flow and movement, as it creates a sense of momentum that carries the reader forward.

In terms of literary devices, "The Butterfly Obtains" is rich with imagery and symbolism. The butterfly is a powerful symbol of transformation and metamorphosis, and Dickinson uses it to explore the idea of personal growth and self-discovery. The phrase "chrysoprase apartments" is also symbolic, as chrysoprase is a gemstone that is associated with healing and transformation. The use of color imagery (green, gold, and blue) also adds to the poem's sense of beauty and wonder, as these colors are often associated with nature and the natural world.

In conclusion, "The Butterfly Obtains" is a masterpiece of poetry that explores the themes of transformation, personal growth, and self-discovery. Through her use of imagery, symbolism, and structure, Emily Dickinson creates a powerful and evocative poem that has resonated with readers for generations. Whether you are a fan of poetry or simply appreciate beautiful writing, "The Butterfly Obtains" is a must-read for anyone who wants to experience the power and beauty of language.

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