I Lived on Dread
poem 770
I Lived on Dread - meaning Summary
Fear as Driving Force
The poem describes dread not merely as pain but as a motivating force. Dickinson presents danger and fear as a stimulus that sharpens will and compels action. Where ordinary authority or resources (the "sceptre") are absent, fear acts like a spur on the soul, pushing one to confront or outrun despair. The tone is economical and paradoxical, treating anxiety as both disabling and energizing.
Read Complete AnalysesI lived on Dread To Those who know The Stimulus there is In Danger Other impetus Is numb and Vitalless As ’twere a Spur upon the Soul A Fear will urge it where To go without the Sceptre’s aid Were Challenging Despair.
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