Poem Analysis - The Spry Arms Of The Wind

Introduction: A Fleeting Mission

Emily Dickinson's "The Spry Arms Of The Wind" presents a speaker yearning for swift passage to another realm, driven by a vital, albeit mysterious, errand. The poem's tone is initially one of anticipation and a confident urgency, quickly followed by a determined spirit to do what must be done, regardless of how strange it might seem. This soon shifts to a more urgent reflection on the importance of the mission, culminating in a vision of warmth and immediate return. The poem's brevity mirrors the speaker's stated intention: to complete her task quickly and efficiently.

The Theme of Spiritual Connection

One dominant theme in the poem is the exploration of a spiritual connection. The "adjoining Zone" suggests a realm beyond the physical, a space of souls rather than bodies. The speaker's "errand imminent" to that zone points to a mission related to the soul. The line "To ascertain the House / And is the soul at Home" reinforces this idea. This is not a physical house but a metaphorical dwelling for the soul. The speaker is checking on this soul and its state of being, implying a connection between the speaker and the soul of another.

Illuminating the Soul: The Symbol of Light

A central symbol in the poem is light, represented by the "Wick of mine." The speaker intends to "hold the Wick of mine to it / To light, and then return." This imagery suggests the act of igniting or revitalizing a soul. Light, traditionally associated with knowledge, truth, and spiritual awakening, is here used to symbolize the speaker's contribution to another's spiritual well-being. The speaker does not bestow a new light, but rather kindles an existing one, implying a collaborative or assisting role in the soul's journey. This simple image reveals a profound message about how we may, in small ways, support one another.

The Wind as a Vehicle of Transcendence

The "Spry Arms of the Wind" function as more than just transportation; they represent the possibility of transcending earthly limitations. The speaker expresses a desire to "crawl between" these arms, indicating a wish to utilize the wind's power to move swiftly between worlds. The wind, often associated with freedom, change, and the ethereal, becomes a vehicle for spiritual travel. The wind's casual stroll "the Town among" in contrast to the speaker's mission reveals two paths to transcendence: a calm acceptance, or a hurried journey. This opposition invites reflection on the various approaches to finding a soul's home.

Concluding Thoughts: A Quickening Flame

"The Spry Arms Of The Wind" offers a glimpse into a private, purposeful spiritual act. The poem leaves the reader pondering the nature of such connections and the subtle ways in which individuals may contribute to each other's well-being. It is about more than delivering light, however; it is about rekindling an existing connection. The poem’s impact lies in its concise exploration of a profound act of service, emphasizing the speed and efficiency of the errand, mirroring a fleeting, yet profoundly important, moment of spiritual exchange.