Poem Analysis - The Daisy Follows Soft The Sun

Introduction: A Delicate Dance of Devotion

Emily Dickinson's "The Daisy Follows Soft The Sun" is a charming and deceptively simple poem exploring themes of devotion, attraction, and the delicate balance of power in a relationship. The poem begins with a gentle observation of nature, personifying the daisy and the sun, and evolves into a more profound exploration of love and longing. The tone is initially innocent and admiring, shifting to a more urgent and almost apologetic plea. The poem's brevity and direct language belie its complex underlying emotions.

Themes of Adoration and Submission

One of the central themes is unconditional adoration. The daisy's unwavering focus on the sun, "follows soft the Sun," establishes a clear dynamic of devotion. This simple act symbolizes a deeper longing and willingness to follow and be near the object of affection. The second theme is submission. The daisy "sits shyly at his feet," further emphasizes the submissive posture, highlighting a perceived imbalance in the relationship where one party is dominant and the other yields. Finally, the poem hints at the theme of acceptance and forgiveness, seeking "Forgive us, if as days decline / We nearer steal to Thee!" The poem shows the supplicant’s awareness of its own position and asks for the object of its affection to accept its constant presence and affection.

The Sun and the Daisy: Symbolic Representations

The poem relies heavily on the symbolism of the sun and the daisy. The sun, traditionally a symbol of power, warmth, and life-giving energy, represents the object of affection and admiration. It embodies a captivating and perhaps unattainable ideal. The daisy, small, unassuming, and persistently following, symbolizes the adoring admirer. Its pursuit of the sun highlights its unwavering devotion and longing. The sun's question, "Wherefore Marauder art thou here?" suggests a mild irritation or perhaps a test of the daisy's sincerity, underscoring the power imbalance.

Imagery of Light and Darkness

The poem uses potent imagery of light and darkness to convey the shifting emotional landscape. The "golden walk" of the sun evokes a sense of radiance and vibrancy, while the "parting West" and "Night’s possibility!" hint at a more melancholic acceptance of closure and transition. The "Amethyst" of the evening sky brings in an image of rich beauty, even as the day is ending. This contrast mirrors the complex emotions associated with love and longing – the joy of closeness and the sadness of separation.

A Final Whisper of Hope

In conclusion, "The Daisy Follows Soft The Sun" is a poignant exploration of devotion and the human desire for connection. Dickinson masterfully uses the simple image of a flower following the sun to represent a complex emotional dynamic. The poem's beauty lies in its ability to capture the yearning, the submission, and the hope for acceptance that often accompany profound affection. Ultimately, the poem leaves us contemplating the nature of love and the delicate balance between admiration and dependence.