Poem Analysis - Banish Air From Air

A Battle of Elements and Power

Emily Dickinson’s “Banish Air From Air” is a brief but potent exploration of the futility of trying to control fundamental forces. The poem exudes a confident, almost defiant tone, challenging the reader to attempt the impossible. It suggests that even the most assertive actions ultimately succumb to the persistent and inherent nature of things. There is a shift from initial commands to an observation of inevitable outcomes, creating a sense of ironic acceptance. This poem, in its brevity, makes a large claim about the natural order.

The Persistence of Nature's Order

One central theme is the indestructibility of natural forces. The opening lines, "Banish Air from Air / Divide Light if you dare," immediately establish this idea. Dickinson isn't literally talking about air and light, but rather using them as metaphors for something more profound – perhaps love, truth, or the human spirit. The poem implies that these essential elements are intrinsically connected and cannot be truly separated. They "meet" regardless of human attempts to divide them, suggesting a powerful underlying unity that defies control. This theme continues with the image of 'Odors return whole', conveying an idea that some things cannot be repressed or destroyed, they will inevitably resurface.

The Limits of Human Control

Linked to the indestructibility of nature is the theme of human impotence. The phrase "Over your impotence / Flits Steam" is a direct confrontation, highlighting the limitations of human power. The steam, a symbol of natural energy and transformation, effortlessly overcomes the "impotence" of the one who tries to exert control. This contrast reinforces the idea that despite our efforts to manipulate the world around us, there are forces that remain beyond our grasp. The use of the word "dare" in the opening lines sets the tone for this theme, suggesting a challenge and a taunt, as if the speaker anticipates the inevitable failure of those who attempt to control the uncontrollable.

Shape and Substance: An Unresolved Puzzle

The lines "While Cubes in a Drop / Or Pellets of Shape / Fit" present a particularly intriguing image. The "Cubes in a Drop" could symbolize attempts to confine or define something fluid and boundless (like emotions or ideas) into rigid structures. The "Pellets of Shape" further emphasize this attempt to impose order onto something that resists it. The word "Fit," however, suggests a temporary or superficial accommodation. The shape might "fit" for a while, but the inherent nature of the substance will eventually break free. Is Dickinson suggesting that even when things appear contained, their true essence is ready to 'flit' at any moment?

Brief Power, Lasting Impact

In conclusion, "Banish Air From Air" is a powerful statement about the enduring strength of natural forces and the limitations of human control. Dickinson uses vivid imagery and a defiant tone to convey the futility of trying to suppress or divide what is inherently unified. The poem suggests that attempts to control the natural world, or perhaps even aspects of the human spirit, are ultimately doomed to fail, and that these attempts will be met with inevitable and effortless resistance. Though brief, the poem's challenge lingers, prompting us to consider the boundaries of our power and the enduring strength of the world around us.