The Outer from the Inner
poem 451
The Outer from the Inner - meaning Summary
Inner Shapes Outward Appearance
Dickinson argues that outward appearance and behavior are determined by an inner core or "central mood." The poem presents the inner self as an organizing axis that subtly paints and regulates the visible world, while conspicuous actions can distract without revealing truth. Small features and reflections—cheeks, brows, a lake—carry the deeper secret that ordinary sight cannot grasp, implying inward states shape and disclose real identity.
Read Complete AnalysesThe Outer from the Inner Derives its Magnitude ‘Tis Duke, or Dwarf, according As is the Central Mood The fine unvarying Axis That regulates the Wheel Though Spokes spin more conspicuous And fling a dust the while. The Inner paints the Outer The Brush without the Hand Its Picture publishes precise As is the inner Brand On fine Arterial Canvas A Cheek perchance a Brow The Star’s whole Secret in the Lake Eyes were not meant to know.
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