Poem Analysis - Teach Him When He Makes The Names

Yearning for Remembrance: An Introduction

Emily Dickinson's "Teach Him When He Makes The Names" is a poignant and intimate plea for remembrance. The poem centers around the speaker's desire for a newborn child to utter her name, "Emily," creating a link to posterity. The tone is initially hopeful and tender, tinged with a subtle undercurrent of longing. This subtle yearning transforms into a quiet, almost desperate request by the poem's close, showing the speaker's deep need for connection.

Echoes of Loneliness: The Theme of Isolation

One central theme explored is the speaker's fear of oblivion and her desire to transcend her isolation through the act of being remembered. The line "Forbid us not" reveals a vulnerability and a plea not to be forgotten. The poem suggests that naming, particularly the child speaking her name, serves as a powerful antidote to the speaker's fear of fading into obscurity. The physical distance implied by "Were my Ear as near his nest/As my thought today" emphasizes her perceived separation from the world and her hope for a connection that bridges that gap.

Infant Innocence: Symbolism of the "Berry Lips"

The imagery associated with the newborn is delicate and symbolic. The "babbling Berry lips" evoke a sense of nascent life, purity, and sweetness. This image contrasts with the potentially weighty significance of speaking a name, particularly the speaker's own. By placing her hope in such a young and innocent vessel, Dickinson underscores the profound impact that even the simplest acts of recognition can have. The phrase serves as a tender emblem of new beginnings and the potential for lasting connection.

Whispers of Identity: The Significance of "Emily"

The most obvious, but perhaps most profound symbol in the poem, is the name "Emily" itself. It represents the speaker's identity, her existence, and her longing to leave a mark on the world. The specific request that the child pronounce this name highlights her desire for a personal connection, rather than simply being remembered in an abstract or impersonal way. The very act of speaking her name becomes a form of intimate remembrance, a way for her essence to resonate in the future. The choice of ending on her name, rather than another word, emphasizes its importance.

A Legacy of Language: Concluding Thoughts

In summary, "Teach Him When He Makes The Names" is a touching expression of the human desire for connection and remembrance. Through vivid imagery and a deeply personal tone, Dickinson explores themes of isolation, identity, and the power of language to bridge the gap between generations. The simple act of a child uttering the name "Emily" transforms into a potent symbol of enduring legacy and a quiet triumph over the fear of being forgotten. It is a poem that encourages us to consider the profound impact of our names and the importance of remembering those who came before us.