Poem Analysis - Publication

Introduction: A Poet's Principled Stand

Emily Dickinson's "Publication" is a fierce and uncompromising critique of the commercialization of art and intellect. The poem paints a stark picture of the act of publishing as a vulgar "Auction," a degradation of the sacred space of the mind. The tone is initially disapproving, bordering on disgusted, then shifts to one of defiant resolution. Dickinson contrasts the potential financial gain with a profound spiritual loss, choosing integrity over worldly recognition. Ultimately, the poem champions the intrinsic value of thought and the dignity of the human spirit.

The Theme of Intellectual Purity: "White Unto the White Creator"

One of the central themes is the preservation of intellectual and artistic purity. Dickinson uses striking imagery of whiteness and snow to represent this ideal. She declares she would rather remain in her "Garret," a symbol of isolation and artistic independence, and go "White—Unto the White Creator" than "invest Our Snow." This suggests that selling one's creative work is akin to soiling or corrupting something inherently pure and divine. The "White Creator" implies that the source of inspiration is sacred, and therefore, the products of that inspiration should not be subject to the base transactions of the marketplace.

The Degradation of Art: "The Auction of the Mind"

The poem powerfully develops the theme of the degradation of art through commerce. Dickinson employs harsh and unflinching language to depict publication as an "Auction / Of the Mind of Man." This immediately establishes a sense of unease and moral objection. The word "Auction" suggests a vulgar spectacle where the most intimate and profound thoughts are put on display and sold to the highest bidder. The use of the word "Poverty" in the second line implies that financial need might "justify" such a "foul a thing," but she vehemently rejects this notion. The poem challenges the idea that economic pressures should dictate the worth and distribution of intellectual property.

The Divine Gift: "The Royal Air"

A potent symbol within the poem is "The Royal Air." This image represents the intangible, ethereal realm of thought and inspiration. Dickinson argues that thought belongs first "to Him who gave it," meaning a divine or higher power, and then "to Him Who bear / Its Corporeal illustration." This order of ownership is crucial. The creator, the artist, merely gives form to the divine inspiration; they do not own it outright. Selling this "Royal Air" is therefore a sacrilege, a violation of the natural order. The "Parcel" containing this air, the published work, can be offered by the "Merchant / Of the Heavenly Grace," but the poem insists that the "Human Spirit" should not be reduced to a mere "Price." Perhaps Dickinson is suggesting that true value transcends monetary exchange, and some things, especially creative spirit, are simply priceless.

Conclusion: A Timeless Defense of Artistic Integrity

In conclusion, "Publication" is a powerful and enduring statement on the value of artistic integrity and the dangers of commercializing creative expression. Dickinson uses stark imagery and defiant language to portray publication as a potentially degrading act, a violation of the sacred relationship between the artist, their inspiration, and the divine. By choosing to remain in her "Garret" and preserve the purity of her "Snow," Dickinson ultimately champions the intrinsic worth of thought and the dignity of the human spirit, leaving us to ponder the price of artistic freedom and its relationship to commercial success.