Poem Analysis - Of Consciousness Her Awful Mate

An Unshakeable Companion: Introduction

Emily Dickinson's "Of Consciousness, Her Awful Mate" is a brief but potent exploration of the inescapable nature of self-awareness. The poem presents consciousness not as a gift, but as an "awful Mate," a constant companion from which the soul cannot escape. The tone is initially somber and resigned, shifting towards a more intense, almost fearful, contemplation of God's penetrating gaze. The poem ultimately suggests that even in attempts to hide from oneself and the divine, consciousness remains, relentlessly exposing the soul.

The Inescapable Self: Themes of Consciousness and Divinity

One central theme is the inescapable nature of consciousness. Dickinson personifies consciousness as a partner, a "Mate," emphasizing its constant presence. The phrase "cannot be rid" underscores the soul's inability to detach from its own awareness. This idea is further developed through the poem's engagement with the divine. Another theme, the omniscience of God, suggests that attempts to hide from oneself are simultaneously attempts to hide from God. The lines "As easy the secreting her / Behind the Eyes of God" highlight the futility of such efforts. The poem thus develops a complex relationship between self-awareness and divine observation. A third theme could be viewed as the burden of self-awareness which is heavily implied by the word 'awful' describing the consciousness. The word is used in its older sense of awe inspiring and frightening, making clear that the ever-present awareness is a heavy and intimidating companion.

Lenses of Scrutiny: Symbolism and Imagery

The poem employs vivid imagery to convey its themes. The phrase "Eyes of God" creates a sense of divine scrutiny. However, it is the image of "triple Lenses burn upon / The Escapade from God" that stands out. These "triple Lenses" symbolize an intensified level of observation, perhaps representing a divine understanding that surpasses human comprehension. They suggest that even the most carefully planned "Escapade" from God is subject to intense scrutiny, implying that attempts to hide or deceive are ultimately futile. The act of "burn[ing]" implies a painful exposure, a stripping away of pretense. Furthermore, the act of escaping from God suggests not only hiding from God, but also the feeling of escaping the divine purpose or calling for our life; escaping, yet still caught in the 'triple lenses'.

Beyond the Crowd: Individual Exposure

The line "And scant to Him the Crowd" is significant because it emphasizes the individual's vulnerability. While a crowd might offer anonymity, Dickinson suggests that God sees beyond the collective, focusing instead on the individual soul. This line contrasts the individual, who is fully exposed, with the "Crowd", which offers a false sense of security. This emphasizes the personal nature of both consciousness and divine judgment. It raises the unsettling question: if even in the largest crowd, we are still individually known, how much more exposed are we in our own minds?

Final Assessment: The Weight of Awareness

"Of Consciousness, Her Awful Mate" is a powerful meditation on the inescapable nature of self-awareness and the ever-present gaze of the divine. Through potent imagery and a somber tone, Dickinson explores the burden of consciousness and the futility of attempts to hide from oneself or God. The poem's significance lies in its ability to capture the profound discomfort and anxiety that can accompany self-reflection, particularly when considered within the context of a higher power. The poem leaves the reader to ponder the implications of such constant, unwavering observation.