Poem Analysis - The Spider As An Artist

An Ode to the Underappreciated

Emily Dickinson's "The Spider as an Artist" is a short, witty poem that champions the overlooked genius of the spider. The poem adopts a sympathetic and slightly ironic tone, initially acknowledging the spider's unrecognized talent before shifting into a more direct and personal address. Dickinson uses simple language and relatable imagery to elevate the spider's web-spinning to the level of art, questioning societal biases in recognizing true merit. The poem feels like a gentle rebellion against conventional standards of value and a celebration of unconventional artistry.

Dickinson's Empathy and Nature

While specific historical context might not directly influence this particular poem, Dickinson's broader context as a reclusive and unconventional poet likely plays a role. She often found inspiration and metaphor in nature, observing its minute details with keen insight. Furthermore, Dickinson’s tendency to question societal norms and embrace unconventional perspectives informs the poem's premise. Her fascination with the natural world, coupled with her inclination to challenge established values, shapes the sympathetic portrayal of the spider, an often-feared creature, as an underappreciated artist.

Themes of Genius and Recognition

One central theme of the poem is the struggle for recognition of true genius. The spider, despite its "surpassing Merit," is "Neglected" by society. Dickinson highlights this neglect through the ironic acknowledgment that only "Broom and Bridget" – symbols of domestic cleaning and, therefore, the destruction of the spider's art – "certify" its value. This underscores the point that those who most directly benefit from, or interact with, the spider's work are the very ones who destroy it, failing to recognize the artistry involved. Another theme is the subjectivity of art itself. What constitutes art, and who gets to decide? Dickinson implies that conventional standards are flawed, as they overlook the spider's intricate and functional creations. Finally, the poem touches upon the theme of isolation. The "Neglected Son of Genius" stands alone, unappreciated, suggesting the loneliness often experienced by those whose talents are not understood by the mainstream.

Symbolism in Weaving and Cleaning

The spider web itself is a central symbol. It represents not only the spider's artistry and skill but also a form of creation that is both beautiful and functional. It is a testament to the spider's ingenuity, serving as both home and hunting ground. The "Broom and Bridget," mentioned earlier, act as contrasting symbols. They represent the mundane, the domestic, and the forces that actively destroy the spider's creations. The use of "Christian Land" can be interpreted on multiple levels: as a societal designation but also, given the context of creation, as a reference to a wider sense of creative acknowledgement from a higher power, which Dickinson wryly undercuts by suggesting the only certification comes from the forces of domesticity and destruction. This juxtaposition creates a sense of irony and underscores the poem's critique of societal values.

A Final Embrace of the Overlooked

In conclusion, "The Spider as an Artist" is a poignant reflection on the nature of art, genius, and societal recognition. Dickinson uses the spider as a metaphor for any artist or individual whose talents are overlooked or misunderstood. The poem is a call for a broader and more inclusive definition of art and a challenge to the biases that often prevent true genius from being appreciated. Dickinson, by extending her hand to the "Neglected Son of Genius," aligns herself with the marginalized and offers a testament to the value of unconventional creativity.