Poem Analysis - Going To Heaven

A Curious Contemplation of Heaven

Emily Dickinson's "Going To Heaven!" is a deceptively simple poem that explores the complex relationship between faith, death, and earthly life. The poem begins with a childlike wonder and excitement about the prospect of heaven, then transitions into a more thoughtful, almost skeptical reflection on the concept. The tone shifts from joyous anticipation to a wistful contemplation of earthly beauty and a poignant acknowledgment of loss. Ultimately, the poem reveals a speaker grappling with belief and doubt, finding solace in the presumed faith of loved ones while simultaneously clinging to the tangible world.

Faith, Doubt, and Earthly Attachment

One of the central themes is the tension between faith and doubt. The speaker proclaims, "Going to Heaven!" with an initial exuberance, but this is quickly tempered by the admission, "How dim it sounds!" This contrast reveals an internal conflict. The poem explores the theme of mortality by directly addressing death and the afterlife. The lines "Close to the two I lost" and "Since the might Autumn afternoon / I left them in the ground" speak directly to the experience of loss and the longing for reunion in heaven. Finally, the poem highlights the theme of earthly attachment. The speaker's gladness not to fully believe stems from a desire to "look a little more / At such a curious Earth!" This reveals a profound appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the present life, making the prospect of leaving it less appealing.

The Shepherd and the Home: Symbols of Comfort and Belonging

The image of "flocks go home at night / Unto the Shepherd’s arm!" is a recurring symbol of comfort and security. It evokes a sense of being guided and protected, suggesting that death is a return to a safe and loving place. The symbol of "home" appears later when speaker mentions "when we are going home". Heaven is not presented as a grand, awe-inspiring destination, but rather as a simple and familiar place of belonging, like returning home after a long day. This domestic image softens the fear of the unknown and makes the idea of death more approachable.

Dim Light and Little Space: Humility in the Face of the Divine

The phrases "How dim it sounds!" and "Save just a little space for me" contribute to the meaning of the poem. The "dim" light suggests a lack of clarity or a degree of uncertainty surrounding the concept of heaven. The request for "just a little space" reflects a sense of humility and unworthiness. The speaker doesn’t ask for a prominent place, but rather a small, unobtrusive spot close to loved ones. This understated desire suggests a quiet longing for connection and belonging, rather than a grand expectation of reward.

The Paradox of Belief and the Value of Curiosity

"Going To Heaven!" is a poignant exploration of faith, doubt, and the human desire to understand the unknown. It reveals a speaker grappling with the appeal of heaven while simultaneously cherishing the beauty and wonder of the earthly realm. The poem doesn't offer a definitive answer, but instead embraces the paradox of belief. Ultimately, Dickinson suggests that even in the face of uncertainty, there is value in curiosity, humility, and the appreciation of the present moment. The poem’s power lies in its ability to capture the complexity of human emotions surrounding death and the afterlife, leaving the reader to ponder their own beliefs and find solace in their own way.