Poem Analysis - Before He Comes We Weigh The Time

A Moment of Anticipation and Loss

Emily Dickinson's "Before He Comes We Weigh The Time!" is a compact exploration of anticipation and the subsequent emptiness that follows a departure. The poem's tone is initially expectant and perhaps even a bit anxious, conveyed through the act of "weighing" time. This quickly shifts to a sense of profound loss and desolation in the latter half, characterized by the image of "Emptiness" as a heavy burden. The poem’s briefness amplifies the stark contrast between these two states.

The Weight of Waiting: Exploring Expectation

One of the main themes in this poem is the psychological experience of waiting. Dickinson captures the subjective nature of time when anticipating a loved one's arrival. "Before He comes we weigh the Time! / ‘Tis Heavy and ’tis Light" suggests that the perception of time fluctuates. When waiting, moments can feel either agonizingly slow ("Heavy") or fleetingly fast ("Light"), depending on the emotional state and surrounding circumstances. This internal struggle is relatable to anyone who has experienced longing and anticipation, showing the subjective, unpredictable nature of expectation.

The Void Left Behind: Understanding Emptiness

Another significant theme is the exploration of absence and the void left by departure. The second half of the poem, "When He depart, an Emptiness / Is the prevailing Freight," dramatically shifts the focus. The word "Emptiness" is personified as a "Freight," a burden to be carried. This suggests that the absence of the loved one is not merely a lack but an active, heavy presence in the speaker's life. The simplicity of the language makes the experience of loss feel immediate and profound, emphasizing the weight of loneliness.

Symbols of Time and Absence: Unpacking the Meaning

The poem employs potent symbolism. The act of "weighing the Time" symbolizes the intense scrutiny and heightened awareness that often accompany anticipation. Time becomes a tangible object, analyzed and assessed. The image of "Emptiness" as "Freight" is particularly striking. Emptiness, often considered an absence of something, is here transformed into a substantial, overwhelming burden. This unexpected combination highlights the profound impact of loss. It's worth considering whether the "He" in the poem represents a romantic partner, a family member, or even something more abstract like hope or joy, which when lost, leaves behind a feeling of emptiness. Is it possible that the 'He' is in fact death?

A Moment's Significance: Concluding Thoughts

In conclusion, "Before He Comes We Weigh The Time!" is a concise yet powerful meditation on anticipation and the subsequent feeling of loss. Dickinson masterfully uses simple language and vivid imagery to convey the subjective experience of time and the heavy burden of emptiness. The poem's strength lies in its ability to capture these complex emotions in just four lines, leaving the reader with a lingering sense of the profound impact of both presence and absence. The poem's brevity mirrors the fleeting nature of the moment itself, making the subsequent emptiness feel all the more significant.