The Butterfly Obtains
The Butterfly Obtains - meaning Summary
Appearance Versus Moral Worth
Dickinson’s short poem observes how a butterfly earns little sympathy or moral credit despite its beauty and freedom. Observers judge it as dissolute because of its showy appearance and presumed leisure, while a humbler insect labeled industrious would be deemed more deserving of praise and "Immortality." The poem satirizes social values that equate outward respectability with virtue and reward, questioning appearances as measures of moral worth.
Read Complete AnalysesThe butterfly obtains But little sympathy Though favorably mentioned In Entomology – Because he travels freely And wears a proper coat The circumspect are certain That he is dissolute – Had he the homely scutcheon Of modest Industry ‘Twere fitter certifying For Immortality –
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