Poem Analysis - Over The Fence

A Humorous Take on Petty Conflict

Emily Dickinson's "Over The Fence" presents a lighthearted yet insightful exploration of human nature, particularly the tendency towards petty arguments and the futility of partisan conflict. The poem uses colloquial language and a humorous tone to depict a seemingly trivial dispute between neighbors, Old Man Poole and the narrator, which is ultimately put into perspective by the return of a war veteran, Digger Smith. While Dickinson is primarily known for her more serious and introspective work, this poem showcases a different side of her, demonstrating her ability to capture everyday life and inject it with gentle satire. The poem's overall mood shifts from amusement to a more thoughtful contemplation of perspective and the value of unity. The ending loops back to the beginning and amplifies the central message.

The Shadow of War and Shifting Perspective

Although the poem makes no direct reference to a specific historical event, the presence of Digger Smith, a war veteran, provides a crucial context. His return "from a dinkum scap" (meaning a genuine fight) highlights the absurdity of the neighbor's argument in comparison to the larger conflicts and experiences of war. Smith's time on the front lines has broadened his perspective, making the squabbles of everyday life seem insignificant. This contrast implicitly criticizes the narrow-mindedness of those who engage in pointless disagreements, oblivious to the bigger picture. The poem also gently suggests that profound experiences can lead to personal growth and a reassessment of priorities.

The Futility of Partisan Divides

One of the main themes in "Over The Fence" is the futility of partisan divides. The poem illustrates how easily a friendly conversation can devolve into a heated argument over politics, specifically because Poole and the narrator are entrenched in their respective "Party" affiliations. This emphasizes the way in which rigid adherence to ideological positions can create unnecessary conflict and prevent meaningful dialogue. The spade serves as a symbol for this descent into conflict: it's borrowed under the guise of friendship, but ultimately it's a tool that digs up "earth" and "clay," leading to a "mud" slinging match. The image of Digger Smith, a man who has seen the horrors of war, dismissing such arguments as "chasing its own tail" reinforces the theme of the triviality of these divisions.

"Winnin' the War?": A Recurring Ironic Question

The repeated question, "Winnin' the war?", serves as a recurring motif, highlighting the absurdity of the argument. Initially posed by Digger Smith, it's later echoed by the narrator's wife, Doreen. The question ironically juxtaposes the insignificant nature of the neighbors' dispute with the real and serious battles fought during wartime. The poem's use of this question suggests that the neighbors are engaging in a pointless and self-destructive battle, wasting their energy on a conflict that ultimately achieves nothing. It encourages the reader to reflect on the types of "wars" they engage in their own lives and whether they are truly worth fighting.

From Partisan to Peacemaker? An Open-Ended Conclusion

In conclusion, "Over The Fence" is a clever and accessible poem that uses humor and relatable characters to explore the themes of perspective, the futility of partisan divides, and the importance of unity. Digger Smith's return from war serves as a catalyst for highlighting the triviality of everyday conflicts and the potential for growth through broadened experiences. The poem ends with the characters once again embroiled in a discussion, prompting the reader to wonder if any real change has occurred, or if the cycle of argument will simply continue. Does the war veteran's wisdom fall on deaf ears, or does it plant the seed of a more peaceful resolution? The ambiguous ending allows readers to ponder whether genuine progress is possible in overcoming ingrained partisan tendencies, ultimately leaving a lingering question about human nature.