Poem Analysis - Strong Draughts Of Their Refreshing Minds

A Thirst for Intellect

Emily Dickinson's "Strong Draughts of Their Refreshing Minds" is a short but potent poem about the invigorating power of intellectual connection. The poem speaks of the mind as something that can be nourished and strengthened by the ideas of others, comparing this process to drinking a revitalizing beverage. The tone is initially grateful and appreciative, shifting to a more assertive declaration of personal strength and resilience gained through this intellectual stimulation. There is an overall feeling of empowerment and liberation in gaining knowledge.

Nourishment for the Soul

One of the poem’s central themes is the transformative power of intellect. Dickinson uses the metaphor of drinking to illustrate how absorbing the "refreshing minds" of others can sustain and empower the individual. The line "To drink enables Mine" suggests that the speaker's own mind is strengthened and capable because of the ideas it consumes. The desert and wilderness imagery imply that life without this intellectual nourishment would be barren and difficult, while the "Sealed Wine" symbolizes the precious and potent nature of the knowledge that quenches this thirst.

The Journey Within

Another prominent theme is resilience and endurance. The poem speaks of traversing a "Desert or the Wilderness," which can be interpreted as facing life's challenges or intellectual struggles. By drinking from the "refreshing minds" of others, the speaker gains the ability to "go elastic," suggesting flexibility and adaptability in the face of adversity. The reference to the camel further emphasizes this theme, as the camel is known for its ability to endure long journeys in harsh conditions. The poem shows how intellect can fortify a person's capacity to withstand challenges.

Hermetic Strength and Empowerment

Finally, the poem explores the theme of self-sufficiency through intellectual stimulation. The "Hermetic Mind" represents a mind that is sealed off and self-contained, yet also full of potential and power. The stimulus provided by such a mind is what ultimately provides strength and drive. The phrase "How powerful the Stimulus" is an emphasis of how impactful it is to nourish one's mind. It is about the speaker’s personal strength coming from the intellectual empowerment gained by interacting with powerful minds, allowing them to find their own hermetic mind.

Symbols of Sustenance and Strength

The key symbols in the poem are the "Strong Draughts," the "Sealed Wine," and the "Camel." The "Strong Draughts" represent the potent and invigorating ideas taken from others, acting as nourishment for the mind. The "Sealed Wine" symbolizes the precious and potent nature of knowledge, suggesting that it is something valuable and carefully preserved. The "Camel" symbolizes endurance and resilience, representing the ability to withstand hardship and travel far, empowered by the intellectual sustenance received. A question that arises is whether the "Sealed Wine" is discovered or deliberately sought out by the speaker. This adds to the ambiguity of the text and what the process of intellectual connection involves.

Final Draughts: The Lasting Impact of Intellect

In conclusion, "Strong Draughts of Their Refreshing Minds" is a powerful testament to the transformative power of intellectual connection and the sustenance that great minds can provide to one another. Through vivid imagery and potent symbolism, Dickinson demonstrates how absorbing the ideas of others can empower individuals to overcome challenges, cultivate resilience, and unlock their own intellectual potential. The poem ultimately celebrates the enduring strength that comes from a mind nourished by knowledge and connection, leaving the reader with a sense of appreciation for the enriching power of intellectual stimulation and the idea that exposure to the ideas of others is crucial to survival and growth.