Poem Analysis - The Butterflys Assumption Gown

A Fleeting Moment of Elevated Beauty

Emily Dickinson's "The Butterfly's Assumption Gown" is a short, evocative poem that captures the brief but dazzling appearance of a butterfly. The poem’s tone is one of awe and slight amusement, observing the butterfly's seemingly grand gesture of appearing among humble surroundings. The butterfly’s presence is described with imagery of royalty and condescension, creating a whimsical contrast between the delicate creature and its perceived self-importance. The poem seems to admire and gently poke fun at this fleeting moment of beauty and transformation.

Transformation and Transience

One of the main themes explored in the poem is the idea of transformation. The "Butterfly's Assumption Gown" suggests the butterfly has undergone a significant change, implied by the word "Assumption," typically associated with taking on a new role or form. This transformation allows it to emerge in radiant attire, symbolized by the "Chrysoprase Apartments hung," suggesting a luxurious and vibrant existence. However, this existence is brief, emphasizing the transience of beauty and status. The poem quietly acknowledges that even moments of splendor are temporary.

Humility Versus Grandeur

Another theme revolves around the juxtaposition of humility and grandeur. The butterfly, in its "Assumption Gown," descends to "be of Buttercups the friend / In a New England Town." This highlights a contrast between the butterfly's elevated state, suggested by the rich imagery of "Chrysoprase Apartments," and the simple, commonplace environment it chooses to inhabit. The poem subtly questions the necessity of condescension when encountering the ordinary, perhaps suggesting that true beauty can appreciate simplicity without feeling superior.

Royal Imagery and its Meaning

The poem employs rich imagery of royalty to describe the butterfly. The "Assumption Gown" itself implies a coronation or elevation, while the "Chrysoprase Apartments hung" evoke images of opulent chambers. This royal imagery contributes to the theme of grandeur and the butterfly's perceived superiority. However, this imagery may also be interpreted as a gentle satire of vanity, suggesting that even the smallest creatures can possess a sense of self-importance. Is the butterfly truly condescending, or is the speaker projecting human-like judgments onto a creature simply acting according to its nature?

Final Thoughts: A Momentary Monarch

In conclusion, "The Butterfly's Assumption Gown" is a charming miniature that explores themes of transformation, transience, and the interplay between humility and grandeur. Through vivid imagery and a lighthearted tone, Dickinson captures a fleeting moment of beauty and perceived condescension, inviting readers to contemplate the nature of beauty, status, and the potential for both grandeur and simplicity to coexist. The poem leaves us with a lingering image of a momentary monarch, gracing a humble New England town with its presence.