Poem Analysis - Away From Home Are Some And I

An Introduction to Displacement and Identity

Emily Dickinson's "Away From Home are Some and I" is a short but potent exploration of feelings of alienation and displacement. The poem's tone is initially observational, almost detached, but it gradually shifts into a more personal and reflective mood as the speaker contemplates the difficulty of adapting to a new environment. The poem touches upon themes of identity, belonging, and the persistent pull of one's origins.

The Emigrant's Paradox: Isolation in a Crowd

One of the central themes of the poem is isolation. The speaker explicitly identifies as an "Emigrant," even while surrounded by "a Metropolis of Homes." This paradoxical situation highlights the idea that physical proximity doesn't necessarily equate to belonging. The phrase "easy, possibly" suggests a reluctant admission that fitting in might be achievable on a superficial level, but the subsequent stanzas reveal a deeper, more profound struggle with assimilation. The speaker is essentially an outsider, even in a place where others have created homes and communities.

The Weight of Heritage: A Sky Hard to Forget

The poem delves into the theme of identity, specifically how one's origins shape their sense of self. The "Habit of a Foreign Sky" is a striking image that represents the ingrained cultural norms, experiences, and perspectives that define a person's background. The difficulty of acquiring this new habit underscores the deep-seated nature of one's identity. It's not simply about learning a new language or custom; it's about fundamentally altering one's perception of the world. This echoes the challenges faced by many immigrants who attempt to reconcile their past with their present.

Childlike Retention: A Face Turning Backwards

The image of "Children, who remain in Face / The more their Feet retire" is a powerful symbol of the enduring connection to one's origins. This paradoxical image suggests that the further one moves away from their home, the more vividly their past remains etched in their mind. Their face retains the memory of home. This creates a tension between the physical act of leaving and the emotional pull of staying connected to one's roots. Is this a conscious choice, or a subconscious reaction? This ambiguity encourages further contemplation on the nature of identity.

A Final Thought on Belonging

In conclusion, "Away From Home are Some and I" is a poignant meditation on the experience of displacement and the enduring power of identity. Through vivid imagery and carefully chosen words, Dickinson captures the internal conflict of an individual struggling to adapt to a new environment while simultaneously grappling with the pull of their origins. The poem serves as a reminder that belonging is not simply a matter of physical location, but a complex negotiation between one's past, present, and sense of self. Ultimately, it underscores the profound challenge of forging a new identity without completely erasing the old.