Poem Analysis - Is It True Dear Sue

A Delicate Anxiety

Emily Dickinson's "Is It True, Dear Sue?" is a charmingly anxious little poem, whispered like a secret between close friends. The poem bubbles with a playful nervousness, revealing a speaker hesitant about visiting someone – likely Sue – because of the presence of another, unidentified male figure. The initial tone is inquisitive and slightly apprehensive, which then shifts into a whimsical fantasy of how to control this "Him" so that a visit can occur, ending on an anticipatory note.

The Shadow of a Third Party

The poem revolves around the speaker's concern about a romantic triangle, or at least the potential for one. The central question, "Are there two?" immediately establishes this theme. The speaker's hesitation stems from a fear of disrupting or intruding upon an existing relationship between Sue and this other person. This fear is not necessarily malicious, but rather rooted in a desire to avoid awkwardness or causing discomfort. The phrase "I shouldn't like to come / For fear of joggling Him!" demonstrates the speaker's consideration for the feelings of all parties involved, especially the unnamed man.

Imagining Control: A Whimsical Escape

To combat the anxiety surrounding the situation, the speaker creates vivid images of controlling "Him." The lines "If I could shut him up / In a Coffee Cup, / Or tie him to a pin / Till I got in" are particularly striking. These images are not meant to be taken literally, but rather represent the speaker's wish to exert influence over the situation. The idea of confining someone in a coffee cup is inherently absurd and humorous, underscoring the playful nature of the speaker's anxiety. Similarly, "tie him to a pin" further contributes to the whimsical fantasy. This imagery emphasizes the speaker's desire for a smooth, uncomplicated visit with Sue, free from any potential awkwardness or interference. The use of "Toby's fist" introduces a more tangible, though still somewhat absurd, element, perhaps hinting at a possible protector or ally.

Secrets and Anticipation

The poem's ending, marked by "Hist! Whist! I'd come!", adds an element of secrecy and anticipation. The interjections "Hist! Whist!" suggest a hushed, conspiratorial tone, as if the speaker is whispering a secret plan. These sounds also build excitement and eagerness for the planned visit. The concluding statement, "I'd come!", is direct and determined, showing the speaker's eagerness despite the initial hesitation. The very brief nature of the poem adds to the feeling of a shared, fleeting moment between the speaker and Sue, enhancing the intimacy and confidentiality of the exchange. This final line resolves the initial anxiety with a burst of confident enthusiasm.

A Fleeting Glimpse into Intimacy

In conclusion, "Is It True, Dear Sue?" provides a brief but insightful glimpse into the complexities of female friendship and the anxieties surrounding social dynamics. The poem's lighthearted tone and whimsical imagery mask a deeper concern about navigating potential romantic complications. The speaker's playful fantasies of controlling the unnamed "Him" highlight the desire for a simple, uncomplicated connection with Sue. Ultimately, the poem's charm lies in its delicate portrayal of shared secrets and the enduring power of friendship, even amidst the uncertainties of love and relationships. It presents a snapshot of a personal interaction, a moment of whispered confidences and eager anticipation.