Visible, invisible,
A fluctuating charm,
An amber-colored amethyst
Inhabits it; your arm
Approaches, and
It opens and
It closes;
You have meant
To catch it,
And it shrivels;
You abandon
Your intent—
It opens, and it
Closes and you
Reach for it—
The blue
Surrounding it
Grows cloudy, and
It floats away
From you.
Write an analysis on this poem with 5 paragraph and 1 additional paragraph of conclusion and 1 introductory paragraph with a hook statement
In Emily Dickinson's poem "Visible, invisible," the speaker explores the fleeting nature of beauty and the elusive grasp of desire. The opening line sets the tone for the rest of the poem, emphasizing the delicate and ever-changing charm of the subject at hand. The image of an "amber-colored amethyst" suggests a rare and precious object that is both alluring and elusive.
The poem's structure mirrors the subject's elusiveness, as the opening and closing of the object's petals mirrors the speaker's attempts to capture it. The repetition of this action highlights the inevitability of failure in trying to possess something so transient. The use of enjambment in the lines "It opens, and it/Closes" creates a sense of continuous movement, as if the object is in a constant state of flux.
The shift in imagery from the vibrant amber-colored amethyst to a blue clouded surround further emphasizes the idea of something slipping away from the speaker's grasp. The color blue can symbolize both tranquility and sadness, suggesting a sense of loss or longing. The object ultimately "floats away" from the speaker, leaving them with nothing but a sense of missed opportunity.
Overall, Dickinson's poem captures the bittersweet experience of yearning for something beautiful and fleeting. The speaker's efforts to capture the object are ultimately in vain, highlighting the ephemeral nature of beauty and desire. The poem serves as a reminder of the importance of appreciating the present moment and accepting the transient nature of life.
In conclusion, "Visible, invisible" by Emily Dickinson explores the theme of impermanence and the futility of trying to possess something elusive. The poem's vivid imagery and poignant language evoke a sense of longing and regret, making it a powerful meditation on the nature of beauty and desire. Dickinson's skillful use of language and structure helps to convey the fleeting and ethereal essence of the subject, leaving the reader with a sense of wistful nostalgia.