Poem Analysis - Her Last Poems

A Silent Farewell to a Poetic Genius

Emily Dickinson’s "Her Last Poems" is a poignant elegy, a hushed and reverent farewell to a fellow female poet. The poem reflects on the immense loss felt upon the poet’s death, emphasizing the unique and irreplaceable nature of her talent. The tone is initially one of mourning and awe, transitioning to a more complex mix of reverence, frustration, and even a hint of defensiveness towards those who might not fully appreciate the loss. The mood subtly shifts from somber acceptance to a sharper, almost resentful questioning of others’ ability to comprehend the magnitude of her absence.

The Incomparable Voice, Now Stilled

One central theme in the poem is the irreplaceable nature of artistic genius. Dickinson stresses that with the poet's death, a unique voice has been silenced forever. Lines like "Silver perished with her Tongue" and "Not on Record bubbled other, / Flute or Woman / So divine" emphasize the singularity of her talent. The comparison to "Silver" suggests a preciousness and purity of expression, while the "Flute" image evokes the beauty and musicality of her poetry. The stark declaration that no other voice "bubbled" forth in such a "divine" way reinforces the idea that her artistic gift was exceptional and unmatched.

Beyond Earthly Praise

Another significant theme is the inadequacy of earthly praise and recognition in the face of true artistic greatness. The lines "Late the Praise / ‘Tis dull conferring / On the Head too High to Crown" suggest that any accolades or honors bestowed upon the poet after her death are ultimately insufficient. The "Head too High to Crown" conveys the idea that her talent was so elevated that it transcended conventional forms of recognition, like a "Diadem or Ducal Showing." The poem implies that the poet's true worth lies beyond the reach of earthly judgment and is perhaps best honored by the "Grave," which serves as a "sufficient sign" of her enduring significance.

Whispers of Literary Rivalry and Understanding

The poem also touches upon the theme of literary community and the complexities of appreciating genius. The lines "Nought that We No Poet’s Kinsman / Suffocate with easy woe" suggest a certain frustration with those who might express superficial sorrow without truly understanding the poet’s work or the depth of the loss. The question, "What, and if, Ourself a Bridegroom / Put Her down in Italy?" introduces a jarring note, hinting at potential rivalry or resentment perhaps stemming from perceived neglect or lack of recognition during her lifetime. Was she taken advantage of or treated unfairly? This final stanza raises a question about the environment in which the poet lived and worked and who felt the power to stifle or support her.

Symbols of Lost Art

The poem employs several potent symbols. The "Silver Tongue" is a vivid image representing the poet's articulate and beautiful voice. The "Flute" further reinforces the idea of her poetry as a source of melodic beauty and inspiration. The "Grave" ultimately becomes a symbol not of death but of enduring artistic significance, standing as a silent testament to a talent that surpasses earthly praise. The "Anglo-Florentine" connection (though its meaning remains opaque) hints at a cultural and historical context, possibly suggesting a tension between the poet's origins and influences from European literary traditions, emphasizing her uniqueness in the literary landscape.

A Lasting Legacy of Silence and Significance

In conclusion, "Her Last Poems" is a multifaceted elegy that celebrates the unparalleled talent of a deceased poet while also grappling with the limitations of earthly recognition and the complexities of literary community. The poem's power lies in its evocative imagery and the subtle shifts in tone, which reveal a deep sense of loss mixed with a hint of frustration and a resolute affirmation of the poet's enduring significance. The poem leaves us pondering the nature of genius, the inadequacy of praise, and the bittersweet legacy of a voice now silenced but forever echoing through her work.