Poem Analysis - It Feels A Shame To Be Alive

Introduction: A Questioning of Worth

Emily Dickinson's "It Feels A Shame To Be Alive" is a somber and reflective poem that grapples with the weight of survival in the face of heroic sacrifice. The poem is imbued with a sense of unease and self-doubt, as the speaker questions the value of their own life compared to those who died for a noble cause. The tone is initially regretful, bordering on envious, but shifts towards a more contemplative and questioning stance as the poem progresses. Ultimately, Dickinson explores the profound implications of liberty and the price paid for it.

Historical Context: Echoes of Conflict

While not explicitly mentioned, the poem likely resonates with the social context of 19th-century America, including the Civil War (1861-1865). Dickinson, known for her reclusive life, was nonetheless acutely aware of the profound losses and sacrifices made during this period. The poem's allusions to battle, death, and liberty strongly suggest the influence of this historical reality. The speaker's feelings of shame and unworthiness could be interpreted as a reflection of the collective guilt and trauma experienced by a nation grappling with the consequences of war.

Themes: The Price of Liberty and the Value of Life

One of the poem's central themes is the price of liberty. The speaker emphasizes how dearly bought freedom is, suggesting it is "Sublimely paid". The image of lives being "In Pawn for Liberty" underscores the notion that freedom is not free but is obtained by the ultimate sacrifice. The question "Do we deserve a Thing / That lives like Dollars must be piled / Before we may obtain?" further highlights this theme, implying that some sacrifices are so significant that they may not be worth the prize. The poem also delves into the theme of questioning the value of life. The speaker struggles with the feeling that their life is somehow less valuable than the lives of those who died for a greater cause. This is evident in lines like "It feels a shame to be Alive / When Men so brave are dead" and "Are we that wait sufficient worth / That such Enormous Pearl / As life dissolved be for Us / In Battle’s horrid Bowl?". The word "shame" is key to understanding the speaker's internal conflict regarding their right to be alive. Lastly, the poem touches upon the concept of sacrifice and divinity. The closing stanza suggests that those who die for a noble cause attain a form of "Renown" and perhaps even "Present Divinity." This elevated status is bestowed upon "unsustained Saviors," signifying that true heroism lies in giving everything, even life itself.

Symbolism: Stone, Pearl, and Bowl

Several recurring symbols enrich the poem's meaning. The "Stone" that tells of "defending Whom" is a powerful symbol of remembrance and memorialization. It represents not only the individual soldier but also the cause for which he fought. The "Enormous Pearl" is a symbol of life itself, particularly its preciousness and fragility. The phrase "life dissolved" further emphasizes the ephemeral nature of existence. The "Battle's horrid Bowl" is a potent image of war and destruction. The "Bowl" can be interpreted as the crucible in which lives are sacrificed, or the container that holds the collective suffering of war. The contrast between the "Pearl" of life and the "horrid Bowl" underscores the tragic waste of potential caused by conflict. Further, Dickinson's phrasing is ambiguous, leaving open the question of whether human life has an inherent, intrinsic worth, or whether it is only valued relative to some material good (like a dollar).

Conclusion: A Legacy of Sacrifice

In conclusion, "It Feels A Shame To Be Alive" is a poignant exploration of the weight of survival, the price of liberty, and the enduring legacy of sacrifice. Through vivid imagery and a questioning tone, Dickinson compels readers to contemplate the value of their own lives in light of the sacrifices made by others. The poem's enduring significance lies in its unflinching examination of the human cost of freedom and its timeless reflection on the profound implications of mortality. By questioning whether we "deserve" the gift of life purchased by the blood of others, Dickinson challenges us to live in a way that honors their memory.