Poem Analysis - All The Letters I Can Write

A Sensual Whisper

Emily Dickinson's "All the Letters I Can Write" is a short but intensely evocative poem that explores the inadequacy of language to express the depth of feeling, specifically romantic or sensual longing. The poem is intimate and breathless, creating a mood of hushed reverence and passionate desire. While initially lamenting the limitations of written words, the poem quickly shifts to a celebration of unspoken intimacy, culminating in a vivid image of gentle, almost sacred, contact. The overall effect is one of intense feeling carefully restrained yet palpably present.

The Poverty of Words, The Richness of Experience

One of the central themes of the poem is the limitation of language. The opening line immediately establishes this idea: "All the letters I can write/Are not fair as this." The "this" is deliberately vague, suggesting something beyond the grasp of written communication. The poem then transitions into a description of what *is* adequate, using sensuous imagery to represent a deeper, perhaps unspoken, connection. This speaks to the idea that some experiences, particularly those of intense emotion or physical sensation, transcend the ability of words to fully capture their essence. Dickinson seems to suggest that true connection lies in a realm beyond the reach of conventional expression.

Velvet, Ruby, and the Language of Desire

The poem relies heavily on sensory imagery to convey its meaning. The phrases "Syllables of Velvet/Sentences of Plush" evoke feelings of softness, luxury, and intimacy. These are not just abstract concepts; they are textures that can be felt and experienced. Similarly, "Depths of Ruby, undrained," creates a sense of preciousness, depth, and perhaps even a restrained passion. The color ruby is often associated with love and desire, and the image of something "undrained" suggests a wellspring of emotion that is still full, untapped, and potent. This collection of images highlights the intense and luxurious nature of the speaker's feelings.

A Hummingbird's Kiss: Symbolism of Intimacy

The final two lines introduce a particularly striking symbol: the hummingbird. "Play it were a Humming Bird/And just sipped me." This image is delicate, gentle, and intensely intimate. A hummingbird is a small, fast-moving creature, and its "sipping" suggests a light, almost ethereal touch. This could represent a kiss, but more broadly, it symbolizes a deeply personal and cherished moment of connection. The use of "sipped" rather than "drank" further emphasizes the gentleness and reverence of the interaction. The hummingbird, then, becomes a symbol for a specific type of intimacy, one characterized by respect, affection, and a shared understanding that transcends words.

Beyond the Page: A Celebration of Unspoken Connection

In conclusion, "All the Letters I Can Write" is a powerful testament to the inadequacy of words in the face of profound emotion. Through vivid imagery and carefully chosen symbols, Dickinson crafts a poem that celebrates the power of unspoken connection and the richness of sensory experience. The poem moves from a lament about the limits of language to a celebration of the intimate and profound moments that lie beyond its reach. The final image of the hummingbird's kiss leaves the reader with a sense of wonder and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and complexity of human connection. Ultimately, Dickinson suggests that the truest expressions of feeling often lie not in what is said, but in what is felt and shared in silence.