Poem Analysis - Forever It Composed Of Nows

A Meditation on Eternity

Emily Dickinson's "Forever it Composed of Nows" is a concise exploration of the nature of eternity, presented with a tone of quiet contemplation. The poem suggests that eternity isn't a separate realm of time, but rather an extension of the present moment. It encourages the reader to reconsider our perception of time, stripping away its conventional markers. The mood is reflective and almost philosophical, urging a reevaluation of the way we perceive the passage of time and existence itself.

The Illusion of Temporal Boundaries

One of the central themes of the poem is the illusion of distinct temporal boundaries. Dickinson proposes that "Forever it composed of Nows," meaning that eternity is simply a continuous string of present moments. This idea challenges the common understanding of time as a linear progression, divided into past, present, and future. The phrase "not a different time" reinforces the notion that eternity isn't something separate but rather an intensification of the current experience. By suggesting that eternity exists within the "Nows", Dickinson diminishes the significance of traditional time markers, proposing a cyclical, rather than linear, view.

Dismantling Conventional Time

The poem develops the theme of time's perceived structure through the image of dismantling conventional timekeeping. Dickinson urges the reader to "Remove the Dates to These" and "Let Months dissolve in further Months / And Years exhale in Years." These lines evoke a sense of shedding the artificial constructs of calendars and chronologies. The verbs "dissolve" and "exhale" create a feeling of these units of time fading away, emphasizing their insubstantial nature. Dickinson implies that without these human-made divisions, time loses its sharp edges and blends into a continuous, unbounded experience. This theme is also supported by Dickinson's choice of words. Phrases like "Without Debate or Pause" suggest that time itself does not acknowledge dates and pauses.

Home as Infinity

Another central theme is the connection between "Home" and infinity. Dickinson equates eternity with "Infiniteness / And Latitude of Home". "Home" is often used as a symbol for comfort, security, and familiarity. Linking it to "Infiniteness" suggests that eternity isn't a frightening or alien concept but rather an expansive version of the familiar. This juxtaposition makes eternity feel more approachable and less abstract. The phrase "Latitude of Home" suggests a freedom and expansiveness within this familiar space. By connecting the abstract concept of eternity to the concrete and personal idea of "Home," Dickinson makes it more relatable and less daunting. The use of the word latitude to describe home also invokes a spatial imagery, suggesting a vastness which aligns with the definition of forever.

The Essence of Timelessness

In conclusion, "Forever it Composed of Nows" is a powerful and concise exploration of the nature of eternity. The poem challenges our conventional understanding of time, urging us to see it not as a linear progression but as a continuous flow of present moments. Through vivid imagery and thoughtful language, Dickinson creates a vision of eternity that is both intimate and expansive. The poem's significance lies in its ability to redefine eternity, not as a distant and incomprehensible concept, but as an intensified version of the present, anchored in the familiarity and comfort of "Home". Dickinson masterfully crafts a perspective where time is not linear, but composed entirely of “Nows”, resulting in a poem that prompts us to reconsider our relationship with time and the eternal nature of existence.