Poem Analysis - One Sister Have I In Our House

A Poem of Sisterhood and Enduring Connection

Emily Dickinson's "One Sister Have I In Our House" is a tender exploration of sisterly bonds, delving into the nuances of shared experience and individual identity. The poem unfolds with a gentle, reflective tone, gradually revealing the depth of the speaker's affection for her sister, Sue. It’s a nostalgic journey back to childhood, highlighting the enduring power of love and connection that transcends time and distance. The mood subtly shifts from describing shared spaces to intimate memories and, finally, to a powerful affirmation of devotion.

Contrasting Personalities, Shared Spaces

The poem immediately establishes a sense of duality and belonging. The "one Sister have I in our house, / And one, a hedge away" presents two distinct figures, both considered "mine." This could signify different types of relationships: one sister physically present and another emotionally close, even if geographically distant. Dickinson uses simple language to convey a profound sense of connection, emphasizing that both sisters "belong to me." The poem highlights the theme of belonging, showing how these sisters, despite their differences, are integral parts of the speaker's life and identity.

Childhood Memories and Deepening Bonds

The second stanza uses powerful imagery to convey a sense of shared history and evolving connection. The line "One came the road that I came / And wore my last year’s gown" evokes a sense of shared path and inherited experience. In contrast, "The other, as a bird her nest, / Builded our hearts among" suggests a different kind of connection, one that is actively constructed and deeply rooted in affection. The poem’s journey to childhood reinforces the theme of enduring love. This love is shown to be a powerful, foundational aspect of her life. Their childhood is a source of strength and unity despite the passage of time.

The Individuality of Sue

The third stanza introduces Sue's unique character. "She did not sing as we did / It was a different tune" suggests that Sue possessed an individual spirit and perspective. "Herself to her a music / As Bumble bee of June" is a vivid image conveying Sue's self-sufficiency and inner joy. The buzzing bumblebee acts as a symbol of self-contained happiness and a quiet strength. The shift in tone indicates a deep respect for Sue’s unique essence, emphasizing the theme of individuality within connection. It’s this individuality that makes her bond with the speaker so powerful.

Eternal Devotion and Lingering Presence

The final stanzas express a lasting devotion. The line, "I held her hand the tighter / Which shortened all the miles," highlights the power of their bond to overcome distance and hardship. The imagery of "her hum" deceiving the butterfly and the "Violets" lying "Mouldered this many May" in her eye evokes a sense of faded beauty and a lasting presence. These symbols represent the enduring impact of Sue on the speaker’s life, even as time passes and things change. The closing lines, "I spilt the dew / But took the morn / I chose this single star / From out the wide night’s numbers / Sue – forevermore!" are a powerful declaration of love and commitment. The "single star" symbolizes Sue, a unique and cherished presence chosen above all others.

A Lasting Legacy of Love

In conclusion, "One Sister Have I In Our House" is a deeply personal poem that celebrates the complexities and enduring power of sisterly love. Through vivid imagery, subtle shifts in tone, and recurring symbols, Dickinson explores themes of belonging, love, and individuality. The poem suggests that true connection transcends physical distance and the passage of time, leaving an indelible mark on the heart. The final declaration of "Sue – forevermore!" encapsulates the poem’s essence: a testament to the enduring legacy of a cherished bond.