Emily Dickinson uses personification throughout poem "712." Explain what she personifies in the poem. Then, analyze the impact of her use of personification on the overall meaning of the poem. Be sure to use specific details to support your answer.
In the poem "712" by Emily Dickinson, the poet uses personification to breathe life into abstract ideas and evoke deeper emotions. The personification in this poem primarily revolves around the notion of "truth," which Dickinson treats as a recognizable character. By giving truth human-like qualities, the poet imparts a sense of agency and power to this concept.
One key instance of personification occurs in the first two lines, where Dickinson writes, "Because I could not stop for Death – / He kindly stopped for me." Here, Death is personified as an individual who has the agency to halt and attend to the speaker. By portraying Death as someone with the ability to make decisions, the poem suggests that death is not only an abstract concept but also an active participant in our lives.
Furthermore, another instance of personification can be found in the following lines: "The Carriage held but just Ourselves – / And Immortality." Here, Immortality is personified as a companion accompanying the speaker and Death in their carriage ride through life. By emphasizing the presence of Immortality, Dickinson suggests that there is something beyond death, and that this entity is a constant companion on the journey through life.
The impact of Dickinson's use of personification is significant in shaping the overall meaning of the poem. By humanizing abstract ideas like Death and Immortality, the poet creates a relatable and tangible experience for the reader. This makes it easier for the audience to grasp and engage with these complex concepts, as they become more than mere abstract notions. The personification helps to strip away some of the fear and uncertainty often associated with Death by presenting it as a continuous presence in our lives, rather than a distant and unknown entity.
Furthermore, the personification of Immortality adds another layer to the poem's theme. It suggests that while death is inevitable, there is an enduring aspect to our existence that transcends it. This idea gives the poem a sense of hope and consolation, as it implies that life and the essence of ourselves continue beyond death.
In conclusion, Emily Dickinson's use of personification in the poem "712" breathes life into abstract ideas like Death and Immortality. By attributing human-like qualities to these concepts, she invites the reader to connect with and understand them on a deeper level. This technique not only helps alleviate the fear and uncertainty associated with Death but also conveys a sense of hope and endurance in the face of mortality.