That Is Solemn We Have Ended
poem 934
That Is Solemn We Have Ended - meaning Summary
Endings as Quiet Understanding
Dickinson reflects on endings—whether trivial or monumental—as inherently solemn. The poem treats a play, a song, a holiday, leaving home, or even death with the same gravity, suggesting that any conclusion reveals a deeper comprehension. Endings do not fully explain themselves; they instantiate an understood change that remains to be fully articulated. The tone is quiet and contemplative, framing parting as both recognition and unresolved meaning.
Read Complete AnalysesThat is solemn we have ended Be it but a Play Or a Glee among the Garret Or a Holiday Or a leaving Home, or later, Parting with a World We have understood for better Still to be explained.
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