Poem Analysis - Snow Flakes

A Dance of Delight: Introduction

Emily Dickinson's "Snow Flakes" is a charming and whimsical poem that captures the transformative power of nature. The poem begins with a sense of order and observation, but quickly evolves into joyous abandon. The tone shifts from detached counting to gleeful participation, creating a lighthearted and almost childlike atmosphere. It’s a testament to the simple pleasures and the ability of nature to break down even the most formal barriers.

The Joyful Rebellion of Nature

One of the central themes in "Snow Flakes" is the triumph of joy and spontaneity over restraint. The speaker initially attempts to control and categorize the snowflakes, meticulously counting and recording them like "rebels." However, the snowflakes' overwhelming merriment proves too infectious to resist. The image of their "slippers leaped the town" suggests a playful disruption of order, a joyful rebellion against the mundane and the expected. This reflects a broader theme of nature's ability to inspire a sense of freedom and uninhibited joy.

Surrendering to Delight

The poem also explores the theme of surrender and acceptance. The speaker's initial attempt to "note the rebels down" is ultimately abandoned as the snowflakes' infectious "jolly" spirit overwhelms her. She "resign[s] the prig," acknowledging the futility of maintaining a rigid, formal demeanor in the face of such exuberant joy. This act of resignation is not one of defeat, but rather of liberation. It’s a willing surrender to the beauty and delight that nature offers, suggesting that true happiness lies in embracing the present moment and allowing oneself to be swept away by its magic.

The Imagery of Transformation

The imagery in the poem is key to understanding its message. The "slippers" leaping the town create a vivid image of playful movement and carefree abandon. This symbolizes the snowflakes' ability to transcend boundaries and spread joy. Furthermore, the transformation of the speaker's "stately toes" into participants in a "jig" is a powerful image of personal transformation. It suggests that even the most reserved aspects of oneself can be awakened by the simple beauty and joy of nature. This imagery implies a blurring of the lines between observer and participant, highlighting the immersive and transformative power of nature's influence.

A Final Jig: Conclusion

In conclusion, "Snow Flakes" is a delightful poem that celebrates the power of nature to inspire joy, spontaneity, and transformation. The speaker's journey from detached observer to enthusiastic participant underscores the idea that surrendering to the beauty and wonder of the natural world can lead to a profound sense of liberation and happiness. The poem serves as a reminder to embrace the simple pleasures of life and to allow ourselves to be swept away by the magic of the present moment, even if it means letting our "stately toes" join in a jig.