Poem Analysis - The Going From A World We Know

Introduction: A Child's Uncertain Ascent

Emily Dickinson's "The Going From A World We Know" is a concise exploration of the transition from familiarity to the unknown. The poem evokes a sense of childlike wonder mixed with trepidation as it likens this transition to a child's perspective of a hill. The tone is initially curious and hopeful, but it gradually shifts towards a more pensive and questioning mood, grappling with the potential rewards and sacrifices involved in venturing into uncharted territory. It ultimately ends with uncertainty.

Theme: Confronting the Unknown

One of the central themes of the poem is the confrontation with the unknown. Dickinson uses the imagery of a child facing a hill to represent this experience. The "world we know" symbolizes comfort and security, while the "one a wonder still" represents the daunting yet potentially rewarding realm beyond. The poem highlights the inherent uncertainty in leaving the familiar, questioning whether the "secret" held by the unknown can truly "compensate" for the inherent loneliness of the journey. The unknown is not necessarily presented as inherently negative, but the poem emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding what it holds.

Theme: The Allure and Fear of Isolation

Isolation is another significant theme that Dickinson explores. The question, "But will the secret compensate / For climbing it alone?" directly addresses the potential loneliness of venturing into the unknown. The phrase "climbing it alone" suggests a personal and solitary journey. The poem subtly acknowledges that while the "sorcery" and "everything unknown" may be alluring, the price of accessing them could be isolation and the lack of shared experience. This raises a question about the relative values of discovery and companionship.

Imagery: The Hill as Metaphor

The primary image in the poem, that of the "hill," functions as a potent symbol. The hill represents the challenges and obstacles one faces when transitioning from the known to the unknown. For a child, a hill can seem immense and daunting, holding hidden possibilities and potential dangers. The "vista" from the hill's summit offers a new perspective, but also demands effort and courage to reach. Behind the hill, "sorcery" is located. This is symbolic of the unknown, or any unfamiliar or potentially scary situation. The choice of 'sorcery' suggests magic, either good or bad.

Conclusion: A Journey of Uncertain Reward

In conclusion, "The Going From A World We Know" captures the complex emotions associated with embracing the unknown. Through the use of childlike imagery and a contemplative tone, Dickinson delves into the anxieties and potential rewards of leaving the familiar behind. The poem leaves the reader with a lingering question about the value of individual discovery versus the potential cost of loneliness, suggesting that the decision to climb the "hill" is a deeply personal one, with no guaranteed outcome.