Poem Analysis - Read Sweet How Others Strove

Introduction: Finding Strength in the Past

Emily Dickinson's "Read sweet how Others strove" is a concise yet powerful call to action, urging readers to draw strength and courage from the examples of those who came before. The poem has an encouraging and inspiring tone, as the speaker uses evocative imagery of faith and sacrifice to motivate the reader to overcome their fears. It's a testament to the enduring power of stories and their ability to bolster our spirits in times of uncertainty. The mood is initially comforting, encouraging one to learn from the past, before becoming more triumphant as it celebrates the legacies of those who have faced adversity.

Theme: Triumph Over Fear

One of the central themes in this poem is the idea of overcoming fear and finding inner strength. The opening lines, "Read Sweet how others strove / Till we are stouter / What they renounced / Till we are less afraid," explicitly state the poem's purpose: to lessen our own fear by reading about the struggles and sacrifices of others. Dickinson suggests that these narratives act as a kind of shield, fortifying us against our own anxieties. The poem implies that by understanding the challenges others have faced, we can diminish our own sense of vulnerability and feel more emboldened to confront our own fears.

Theme: The Enduring Power of Faith

Faith, particularly faith in the face of persecution, is another prominent theme in the poem. The lines "Read then of faith / That shone above the fagot" vividly depict the unwavering belief that can sustain individuals even in the direst circumstances. The image of faith shining above the "fagot" (a bundle of sticks used to burn heretics at the stake) is particularly striking, emphasizing the power of belief to transcend physical suffering. This section suggests that such faith, however difficult to achieve, offers an enduring legacy, a "Renown" that surpasses earthly limitations.

Theme: Legacy and Remembrance

The theme of legacy and remembrance permeates the latter half of the poem. The speaker emphasizes the importance of remembering those who have demonstrated extraordinary courage and faith. "Brave names of Men / And Celestial Women / Passed out of Record / Into Renown!" highlights the idea that true recognition comes not from worldly records but from the lasting impact one has on the world. The shift from "Record" to "Renown" suggests a transformation, where earthly limitations fade away, and the individual's spirit continues to inspire future generations. The poem emphasizes that true renown is earned through struggle and commitment to one's beliefs.

Imagery: The River and the Flame

Dickinson employs powerful imagery to convey her message. The image of the "River" that "could not drown" the "Clear strains of Hymn" is particularly resonant. The river, often a symbol of time and the forces of nature, is unable to silence the voices of faith. This reinforces the idea that faith is a powerful force that can withstand any challenge. The "fagot," as discussed earlier, represents persecution and suffering, but the faith "shone above," further reinforcing the idea that belief can transcend even the most brutal realities. These images create a sense of awe and reverence for those who have demonstrated such unwavering faith.

Conclusion: An Echo of Courage

In conclusion, "Read sweet how Others strove" is a powerful reminder of the importance of learning from the past. Dickinson encourages us to seek inspiration from the struggles and sacrifices of others, finding in their examples the courage to confront our own fears. Through vivid imagery and a tone of encouragement, the poem celebrates the enduring power of faith and the lasting legacy of those who have remained steadfast in their beliefs. It's a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience and the profound impact that stories of courage can have on shaping our own lives and aspirations. Ultimately, the poem's significance lies in its ability to inspire and empower readers to face adversity with unwavering faith and determination.