Autumn (Poem by Emily Dickinson)

Autumn

By Emily Dickinson

The morns are meeker than they were,

The nuts are getting brown;

The berry's cheek is plumper,

The rose is out of town.

The maple wears a gayer scarf,

The field a scarlet gown.

Lest I should be old-fashioned,

I'll put a trinket on.

Poem Analysis:

Emily Dickinson's poem "Autumn" is a concise yet evocative exploration of the changing season and its impact on nature and human perception.

Title: The title "Autumn" immediately sets the thematic focus of the poem on the season of autumn, suggesting that the speaker will reflect on the characteristics and changes associated with this time of year.

Themes:

1. Seasonal Change: The poem highlights the transition from summer to autumn, portraying the distinctive features and transformations that occur during this period.
2. Nature's Cycle: Dickinson observes the natural changes taking place in the environment, such as the ripening of nuts and berries, the fading of roses, and the vibrant colors of the maple tree and fields.
3. Perception and Sensibility: The speaker reflects on her own perception of the changing season, noting the alterations in the landscape and considering whether she should conform to contemporary fashion or maintain her own preferences.

Imagery:

1. Visual Imagery: Dickinson employs vivid imagery to depict the sights of autumn, including the meeker mornings, the browning nuts, the plumper berries, and the scarlet gown of the fields.
2. Symbolism: The changing colors of nature, such as the scarlet gown of the field and the gayer scarf of the maple, symbolize the vibrancy and richness of the autumn season.

Language and Tone:

1. The language of the poem is simple yet elegant, with Dickinson's characteristic use of concise and carefully chosen words.
2. The tone is reflective and contemplative, as the speaker observes the changes in nature and considers her own response to them.

Structure: The regular structure and rhyme scheme contribute to the poem's musicality and rhythm, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

Message: "Autumn" captures the beauty and melancholy of the season, inviting readers to contemplate the fleeting nature of time and the inevitability of change. The poem celebrates the richness and diversity of nature while also prompting reflection on personal attitudes and choices in response to change.

Final Thoughts: Emily Dickinson's "Autumn" is a poignant and introspective exploration of the seasonal transition, characterized by its vivid imagery, reflective tone, and subtle symbolism. Through its concise yet evocative language, the poem invites readers to engage with the themes of nature, time, and perception, offering a contemplative meditation on the passage of seasons and the cyclical nature of life.