Poem Analysis - I Dwell In Possibility

A Home Built of Imagination

Emily Dickinson's "I Dwell in Possibility" is an ode to the power and beauty of imagination, framing it as a dwelling far grander than the confines of ordinary prose. The poem exudes a sense of joyful liberation and boundless potential. Initially, the tone is declarative and confident, establishing the speaker's preference. This feeling persists throughout the poem, solidifying the speaker's choice. Ultimately, it is a poem celebrating the expansive nature of creativity and its ability to encompass the infinite.

Beyond Biographical Context

While understanding Emily Dickinson's reclusive lifestyle and unique perspective is valuable when reading her poetry, "I Dwell in Possibility" primarily focuses on a universal theme: the inherent value of imagination and artistic creation. The poem stands alone in its praise of abstract thought, needing little external context to be appreciated for its vibrant imagery and profound message.

The Limitless Realm of Imagination: A Primary Theme

The central theme revolves around the unbounded nature of imagination. Dickinson presents "Possibility" as a superior alternative to "Prose," which represents a more constrained, literal way of thinking. The imagery of the "fairer House" with "more numerous of Windows" and "Superior for Doors" highlights the open, inviting, and expansive qualities of imagination. The repeated use of architectural terms emphasizes the structured yet limitless quality of it. Furthermore, the roof being "The Gambrels of the Sky" suggests the possibility of art stretches as far as the heavens, without restrictions.

Paradise Found Within

Another prominent theme is the accessibility of paradise through creative expression. The poem culminates in the image of "narrow Hands" spreading wide "To gather Paradise." This suggests that even with our limited human capacity, we can access and create something extraordinary through the act of imaginative creation. The metaphor of "gathering Paradise" is striking because it reframes paradise from some unattainable, religious concept to a tangible reality that can be achieved through the power of creativity and art. It suggests that the creative process itself, the act of grasping and shaping ideas, is a form of experiencing paradise.

The Protective Power of Art

A final theme embedded within the poem is the protective and enduring nature of art. The "Chambers as the Cedars / Impregnable of Eye" imagery evokes strength and resilience. Just as cedarwood is known for its durability, these imagined chambers are protected from intrusion and remain untouched by the outside world. This suggests that the realm of possibility, once entered, is a safe haven, providing solace and security to the artist. It highlights that art, and the creative process in general, shields the artist from the vulnerabilities and harsh realities of the world, ensuring the everlasting nature of the artistic vision.

Symbols of Boundless Creation

The "Windows" symbolize the multiple perspectives and avenues of exploration that imagination offers. Unlike a restrictive room with limited views, "Possibility" has "more numerous of Windows," implying an abundance of viewpoints and opportunities for insight. These windows are not merely openings; they are portals to new worlds and understandings, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of creative thought. Similarly, the "Doors" represent access to new experiences and ideas, further reinforcing the idea of imagination as a welcoming and unbounded space.

A Final Look Inside the House

"I Dwell in Possibility" is ultimately a celebration of the human capacity for imagination and artistic creation. It portrays imagination not as an escape from reality, but as a superior way of living, offering freedom, protection, and access to paradise. Dickinson's poem invites us to embrace the boundless potential within ourselves and to recognize the transformative power of art in shaping our experience of the world. The poem leaves us considering what it means to actively choose the path of imagination over the path of what society considers ordinary, and the great rewards that may come with it.