I Gave Myself to Him
poem 580
I Gave Myself to Him - meaning Summary
Love as Solemn Contract
The poem presents a speaker who describes giving herself to a lover in terms of a formal transaction. Dickinson frames love as a contract and commerce, with expectation, risk, and possible disappointment alongside daily affirmation. Images of buying, cargo, and debt stress mutual dependence and the uncertain balance of gain and loss. Ultimately the poem insists on ongoing reciprocity: love as both emotional exchange and repeated, vulnerable obligation.
Read Complete AnalysesI gave myself to Him And took Himself, for Pay, The solemn contract of a Life Was ratified, this way The Wealth might disappoint Myself a poorer prove Than this great Purchaser suspect, The Daily Own of Love Depreciate the Vision But till the Merchant buy Still Fable in the Isles of Spice The subtle Cargoes lie At least ’tis Mutual Risk Some found it Mutual Gain Sweet Debt of Life Each Night to owe Insolvent every Noon
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