Poem Analysis - I Shall Keep Singing

A Declaration of Enduring Art

Emily Dickinson's "I Shall Keep Singing!" is a concise yet powerful declaration of artistic perseverance. The poem possesses a confident and hopeful tone, suggesting a speaker who is determined to continue creating despite any perceived lack of recognition. The mood is initially one of quiet resolve, but it blossoms into a more assured pronouncement of artistic worth as the poem progresses. It's a short but resonant statement of artistic independence.

The Solitary Artist

While it is difficult to pinpoint exact historical contexts for many of Dickinson's poems, we know Dickinson largely lived a life of self-imposed isolation. This context perhaps informs the poem's focus on an internal artistic drive, rather than external validation. The speaker's commitment to "keep singing" regardless of the "Birds" that "pass me" speaks to a self-sufficiency that might be rooted in her unique lived experience.

The Enduring Power of Artistic Expression

One of the main themes is the enduring power of artistic expression. The speaker doesn't define "singing" literally; it's representative of her creative work as a poet. The phrase "I shall keep singing!" functions as a personal vow, suggesting a deep-seated need to create. Even if other, perhaps more celebrated, artists ("Birds") surpass her ("pass me"), her creative drive remains unshakeable. This theme is conveyed through the unwavering tone of the speaker and the image of her "Redbreast" (a small bird, perhaps a metaphor for her humble but heartfelt creations) accompanying her "Rhymes."

Individual Worth Beyond Recognition

Another significant theme is the idea of intrinsic worth surpassing external recognition. The birds moving "to Yellower Climes" suggest the pursuit of fame or greater recognition, a path the speaker chooses not to follow. The speaker's expectation is tied not to external validation, but to the inherent satisfaction derived from creating. The "Redbreast" she possesses suggests a modest beauty, and it is this unadorned, yet individual form of expression that fuels her creative engine.

The Bloom of Creativity Over Time

Finally, the poem touches upon the theme of artistic growth and maturation over time. This is illustrated through the movement from "Morning only the seed of Noon" to "Vespers are sweeter than Matins Signor." The "seed of Noon" represents the potential of early work, while "Vespers," the evening prayer, symbolizes the richness and depth that come with experience. The speaker suggests that their later work, born from experience, will be even more profound than their earlier attempts. This also highlights a personal faith in continued artistic evolution.

Symbolism and the Promise of "Fuller Tune"

The image of birds flying to "Yellower Climes" functions as a potent symbol. The "Yellower Climes" represents a desire for external validation, wealth, or success. The speaker’s deliberate decision to remain ("I shall keep singing!") is a statement of independence. Additionally, the line "Vespers are sweeter than Matins Signor," is significant. "Matins" are morning prayers, signifying a fresh start, while "Vespers" are evening prayers, often associated with reflection and contemplation. This hints that her mature work will be more meaningful and profound than her earlier efforts. Perhaps the intended audience of the poem is "Signor", an Italian word used as a title or form of address like "Sir". This suggests that the poem may have been written for a particular individual, perhaps a mentor or editor, whom she wished to impress with her poetic promise.

Concluding Thoughts: A Quietly Assertive Artistic Manifesto

In conclusion, "I Shall Keep Singing!" is a testament to the enduring power of artistic expression and the importance of finding value in one's own creative work. Dickinson’s poem speaks to the idea that artistic worth transcends external recognition, and the speaker's "Redbreast" and "Rhymes" become symbols of a humble yet authentic artistic spirit. The progression from "Morning" to "Vespers" suggests a faith in continued artistic growth and the promise of an even "fuller tune" to come. It is a quietly assertive manifesto for any artist who finds fulfillment in the act of creation itself.