Poem Analysis - The Color Of A Queen Is This

Introduction: A Royal Spectrum

Emily Dickinson's "The Color of a Queen, Is This" is a short, evocative poem exploring the essence of royalty not through direct description but through vibrant colors and imagery. The poem's tone is one of awe and wonder, attempting to capture something grand and almost ineffable through the language of color. It begins with a question, a tentative exploration, and gradually builds to a more assertive declaration about the power inherent in this "color." The shift moves from gentle observation to an acknowledgment of something potent, even magical.

Painting Royalty with Light and Color

The poem primarily develops the theme of royalty or power through its rich tapestry of colors. Dickinson doesn't describe a queen's physical appearance or her actions. Instead, she identifies royalty with the colors of a setting sun ("Amber / Beryl"), midday light, and the aurora borealis. The use of these natural phenomena elevates the concept of royalty beyond the merely human. It suggests that royalty is not just a political position, but something inherent in the natural world, a force of nature itself. The poem equates royalty with the sun, light, and magical phenomena, suggesting it is something brilliant, powerful, and potentially dangerous.

Nature's Majesty: The Symbolism of Light and Hues

A central symbol in the poem is, of course, color itself. Each color mentioned – "Amber," "Beryl," "Auroran" – is not simply a descriptive adjective but carries symbolic weight. Amber, often associated with warmth and antiquity, suggests a timeless quality of royalty. Beryl, a gemstone, indicates preciousness and inherent value. The "Auroran widths" evoke something otherworldly and almost supernatural. The poem also alludes to nature. The Sun, nature and even witchcraft are all linked together through color to express the power of royalty. By associating royalty with these vibrant colors drawn from nature, Dickinson suggests that its power is not something constructed or artificial but rather a fundamental aspect of the world.

The Alchemical Allure: Iodine and Witchcraft

The mention of "Witchcraft nature keeps / A Rank for Iodine" introduces a complex and somewhat ambiguous element. Iodine, a chemical element, feels almost out of place amidst the natural and mythical imagery. It could symbolize the hidden potency or transformative power associated with royalty. Witchcraft, as a concept, can be understood as a hidden or misunderstood form of power. The poem suggests that nature itself holds onto a powerful, almost secret, rank that is embodied by iodine, and connected to the power of witchcraft. Perhaps Dickinson is hinting at the idea that true royalty is not just about visible splendor but also about an unseen, alchemical force that can transform the world.

Final Thoughts: Decoding Power's Essence

In conclusion, "The Color of a Queen, Is This" is a poem that uses the language of color and natural phenomena to explore the essence of royalty. Instead of focusing on concrete details, Dickinson uses vivid imagery and symbolism to evoke a sense of awe and wonder. The poem links royalty with the sun, rare gemstones, and even witchcraft to demonstrate the power and potential danger of royalty. Ultimately, the poem suggests that true royalty is not just a political position but a fundamental aspect of the world, a potent and transformative force that can be both beautiful and awe-inspiring.