Purple Clover (Poem by Emily Dickinson)

Purple Clover

By Emily Dickinson

There is a flower that bees prefer,

And butterflies desire;

To gain the purple democrat

The humming-birds aspire.

And whatsoever insect pass,

A honey bears away

Proportioned to his several dearth

And her capacity.

Her face is rounder than the moon,

And ruddier than the gown

Of orchis in the pasture,

Or rhododendron worn.

She doth not wait for June;

Before the world is green

Her sturdy little countenance

Against the wind is seen,

Contending with the grass,

Near kinsman to herself,

For privilege of sod and sun,

Sweet litigants for life.

And when the hills are full,

And newer fashions blow,

Doth not retract a single spice

For pang of jealousy.

Her public is the noon,

Her providence the sun,

Her progress by the bee proclaimed

In sovereign, swerveless tune.

The bravest of the host,

Surrendering the last,

Nor even of defeat aware

When cancelled by the frost.

Poem Analysis:

"Purple Clover" by Emily Dickinson is a richly symbolic poem that explores themes of nature, resilience, and the pursuit of beauty. Through vivid imagery and lyrical language, Dickinson invites readers to contemplate the significance of a humble purple clover and its enduring presence in the natural world.

Symbolism of the Purple Clover: The poem centers around the purple clover, a seemingly ordinary flower that holds great significance within its ecosystem. Dickinson portrays the clover as a symbol of resilience and beauty, drawing attention to its allure and desirability among various insects and animals, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. By focusing on the purple clover, Dickinson elevates the importance of the seemingly mundane in nature and underscores the inherent value of all living beings.

Natural Hierarchy and Aspiration: Dickinson explores the natural hierarchy within the ecosystem, illustrating how different creatures aspire to obtain the purple clover for various reasons. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are depicted as contenders vying for access to the flower's nectar, highlighting the competitive nature of survival in the natural world. Through these interactions, Dickinson underscores the interconnectedness of all living beings and the universal drive to seek sustenance and beauty.

Resilience and Perseverance: The purple clover emerges as a symbol of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite facing challenges such as wind and competition from grass, the clover steadfastly asserts its presence and thrives in its environment. Dickinson emphasizes the clover's determination to flourish, even before the arrival of summer when the world is green. This resilience serves as a testament to the tenacity of life and the capacity to endure hardship and adversity.

Celebration of Nature's Beauty: Throughout the poem, Dickinson celebrates the beauty and vitality of the natural world, portraying the purple clover as a radiant and vibrant presence in the landscape. The vivid descriptions of the flower's appearance, including its round face and ruddy color, evoke a sense of wonder and admiration. Dickinson's keen observation of nature's intricacies highlights the profound beauty that surrounds us and invites readers to appreciate the splendor of the world around them.

Themes of Transience and Impermanence: Despite the purple clover's resilience and beauty, Dickinson acknowledges the transient nature of life and the inevitability of change. As the seasons shift and newer fashions blow, the clover remains steadfast, yet vulnerable to the frost that signals the end of its bloom. Through this acknowledgment of impermanence, Dickinson reminds readers of the fragile balance of life and the cyclical nature of existence.

In conclusion, "Purple Clover" by Emily Dickinson is a poignant exploration of nature's beauty, resilience, and transience. Through its vivid imagery and nuanced symbolism, the poem invites readers to contemplate the significance of the purple clover and its place within the intricate tapestry of the natural world.