Poem Analysis - It Dropped So Low In My Regard

Introduction: Disappointment and Self-Reproach

Emily Dickinson's "It Dropped So Low In My Regard" is a short but powerful exploration of disappointment and self-reproach. The poem begins with a sense of something having fallen from grace, moving from an abstract "Regard" to the harsh reality of the "Ground." The tone shifts from passive observation of an external event to a stark and critical self-assessment. The poem's concise language and vivid imagery contribute to its emotional impact, revealing a speaker grappling with internalized blame.

Theme of Diminished Value: Loss of Respect

One central theme of the poem is the diminished value of something, represented by the initial "it." This "it" has "dropped so low" in the speaker's estimation that the speaker hears "it hit the Ground." The imagery of breaking "to pieces on the Stones" suggests a complete and irreparable loss of value. The phrase "At bottom of my Mind" indicates that this experience has sunk deeply into the speaker's consciousness, leaving a lasting mark. The poem subtly suggests that the speaker initially valued this "it", because the act of devaluing it is what prompts the emotional turmoil.

Self-Blame: The Weight of Internalized Guilt

The poem pivots towards a profound sense of self-blame. The speaker acknowledges the role of "Fate" in the initial fall but immediately "denounced Myself" to a greater extent. This highlights the theme of internalized guilt, suggesting that the speaker sees herself as more responsible than external forces. The choice of the word "denounced" implies a severe and public condemnation, amplifying the intensity of the speaker's self-criticism. This section showcases the poem's strongest emotional weight.

Symbolism of Authenticity: Silver vs. Plated Wares

The final two lines introduce potent symbolism through the imagery of "Plated Wares" and "My Silver Shelf." The "Silver Shelf" could represent the speaker's inherent worth or values, something genuine and precious. The "Plated Wares," on the other hand, symbolize something superficial, deceptive, or ultimately false. The speaker blames herself for "entertaining" these plated wares, suggesting that she allowed something inauthentic to occupy a place of importance in her life, displacing the genuine. This could refer to relationships, beliefs, or even aspects of her own personality. The placement of these two images suggests the central failing of the speaker.

Concluding Insight: The Pain of Self-Betrayal

"It Dropped So Low In My Regard" is a poignant exploration of disappointment and self-reproach. The poem's power lies in its ability to condense complex emotions into a few carefully chosen words and evocative images. The final insight that emerges is the profound pain of self-betrayal. The speaker's self-denunciation is not merely a response to the loss of something valued but to the realization that she herself allowed something unworthy to take its place, ultimately diminishing her own sense of self-worth.