Poem Analysis - Exclusion The Soul Selects Her Own Society

Introduction: A Solitary Kingdom

Emily Dickinson's "Exclusion (The Soul Selects Her Own Society)" is a powerful testament to the individual's right to choose their own company and maintain their inner sanctum. The poem possesses a tone of quiet defiance, bordering on cold indifference. It speaks of a soul that is not easily swayed by external grandeur or societal expectations. This initial tone of aloofness solidifies into a sense of unwavering resolve as the poem progresses, culminating in an image of unyielding closure.

The Unreachable Soul: Themes of Isolation and Independence

One of the central themes of the poem is isolation, which stems from the soul’s deliberate act of choosing its own exclusive "society." This isn't necessarily loneliness, but rather a conscious rejection of the outside world in favor of a self-defined space. The poem also explores the theme of independence. The soul’s unwavering resolve to shut the door, regardless of the eminence of those seeking entry, displays a fierce autonomy and self-reliance. Finally, the poem suggests a subtle commentary on spiritual or intellectual superiority. The "divine majority" implies that the soul's chosen companions are of a higher caliber, suggesting that true connection lies not in numbers but in shared understanding and value.

Imagery of Rejection: Doors, Chariots, and Stone

Dickinson employs strong imagery to illustrate the soul's act of exclusion. The "door" symbolizes the boundary between the inner world and the external one. The "chariot’s pausing / At her low gate" and the "emperor kneeling / Upon her mat" are potent images of worldly power and status being rejected. These images emphasize the soul's indifference to external validation. The concluding image, "close the valves of her attention / Like stone," is particularly striking. The word "stone" evokes a sense of permanence, inflexibility, and impassivity, highlighting the soul's unwavering commitment to its chosen isolation.

The Emperor's Plea and a Question of True Value

The image of the "emperor kneeling" is laden with meaning. An emperor represents the pinnacle of earthly power and influence, yet even such authority is rendered powerless before the soul’s unwavering decision. This raises questions about the nature of true value and what the soul deems worthy of its attention. Is the soul rejecting superficiality and embracing a deeper, more profound connection with something that external power cannot offer? It may even suggest a form of spiritual arrogance, where the soul elevates its own judgment above all others. The emperor's futile plea leaves an open question: what could possibly pierce the soul's self-imposed isolation?

Concluding Thoughts: The Power of Inner Choice

In conclusion, "Exclusion (The Soul Selects Her Own Society)" is a powerful exploration of the individual's right to choose their own company and safeguard their inner world. Dickinson uses vivid imagery and a tone of quiet defiance to convey the soul's unwavering commitment to its self-defined boundaries. The poem's enduring significance lies in its celebration of individual autonomy and its challenge to the conventional notions of success and social validation. The soul's choice, however exclusive, speaks to the power and importance of inner conviction and the right to define one's own "society."