Poem Analysis - Partake As Doth The Bee

A Tiny World of Restraint and Grandeur

Emily Dickinson's "Partake as Doth The Bee" is a concise yet evocative poem, presenting a study in contrasts. The poem's tone begins with a gentle suggestion of moderation, then shifts to a sense of expansive, almost extravagant beauty. It explores the idea of finding immense worth in small actions and experiences, suggesting that true wealth might reside in disciplined appreciation rather than boundless consumption. The poem’s brevity belies its depth, inviting the reader to contemplate the relationship between restraint and abundance.

The Allure of Restrained Indulgence

One of the central themes of "Partake as Doth The Bee" is the idea of moderation and controlled consumption. The opening line establishes this theme, directly comparing the reader's potential actions to the behavior of a bee. Bees are known for their diligent and efficient gathering of nectar; they take only what they need. Dickinson's use of the word "abstemiously" further reinforces this idea of self-control. The poem, in its gentle urging, suggests that there is a quiet dignity and even a form of richness to be found in limiting one's desires.

Beauty in Miniature: The Rose as a Kingdom

The poem pivots dramatically in the last two lines, introducing a second key theme: the perception of grandeur in the seemingly small. The rose, a single flower, is elevated to the status of an "Estate," explicitly located in the geographically and historically rich Sicily. This juxtaposition is striking. Sicily, with its vibrant history, volcanic landscapes, and fertile soil, represents a place of great natural wealth and beauty. By equating the rose to an estate in Sicily, Dickinson suggests that even the most unassuming object can possess a world of beauty, if one appreciates it properly. It highlights that true richness is not necessarily about physical accumulation or geographical location but about the ability to perceive the intrinsic value and beauty in what is at hand.

Symbolism of the Bee and the Rose: A Study in Contrast

The bee and the rose serve as central symbols in the poem, representing contrasting yet complementary ideas. The bee symbolizes diligence, restraint, and practicality. Its disciplined approach to gathering nectar mirrors the virtue of temperance that the poem advocates. The rose, on the other hand, represents beauty, abundance, and even extravagance. However, unlike the bee’s active pursuit, the rose’s beauty is passive and inherent. By juxtaposing these two symbols, Dickinson creates a complex image of an ideal approach to life: one that combines disciplined moderation with an appreciation for inherent beauty and richness. One might interpret the poem to mean that even in the midst of abundance, the disciplined approach of the bee is required to fully understand the value of the rose.

A Final Drop of Honey: The Sweetness of Restraint

In conclusion, "Partake as Doth The Bee" is a powerful miniature that explores the delicate balance between restraint and appreciation. Dickinson's use of vivid imagery and symbolism transforms a simple comparison into a profound meditation on the nature of value and abundance. The poem suggests that true wealth lies not in boundless acquisition but in the ability to find immense worth in the small, the beautiful, and the inherent, approached with a measured and appreciative spirit. The bee and the rose, in their contrasting natures, offer a model for a life lived with both mindful restraint and joyful appreciation.