Emily Dickinson

The Flower Must Not Blame the Bee

poem 206

The Flower Must Not Blame the Bee - meaning Summary

Consent and Misdirected Blame

This short poem argues that an apparent victim should not be blamed for another’s desire. The speaker refuses to fault the flower for attracting the bee and instead directs criticism at an intermediary — the footman — who misleads by announcing the mistress is absent. It suggests responsibility lies with those who enable or misrepresent, and raises themes of consent, social roles, and misplaced shame in human relationships.

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The Flower must not blame the Bee That seeketh his felicity Too often at her door But teach the Footman from Vevay Mistress is not at home to say To people any more!

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