Poem Analysis - The Wind Begun To Rock The Grass

Introduction

Emily Dickinson's poem "The Wind Begun to Rock the Grass" vividly captures the power and unpredictability of nature. The tone shifts from ominous to chaotic, as the wind's initial threats escalate into a full-blown storm. The poem's mood transitions from tension to destruction, culminating in a moment of eerie calm. Dickinson's imagery paints a dramatic scene, where the natural world seems to rebel against itself. The final lines introduce a mysterious contrast, hinting at an unseen force or protection.

Historical Context

While the poem does not directly reference specific historical events, Dickinson's fascination with nature and mortality is evident. Living in 19th-century New England, she often explored themes of isolation and the sublime in her poetry. The storm's destructive force may symbolize the uncontrollable aspects of life, reflecting the era's uncertainties. Dickinson's personal reclusiveness might also influence the poem's focus on nature's independence from human control. However, the poem's universal themes make it timeless.

Main Themes

Nature's Power: The poem emphasizes nature's dominance, as the wind and storm disrupt the earth and sky. The personification of natural elements—like the wind "threatening" and the leaves "unhooking" themselves—highlights nature's agency. The storm's progression from warning to destruction underscores its uncontrollable force.

Human Vulnerability: The poem contrasts nature's chaos with human helplessness. The storm's sudden arrival and the animals' frantic responses—birds barricading nests, cattle fleeing—suggest human and animal alike are at the mercy of the elements. The final lines, however, introduce a puzzling exception, leaving the reader to question why the storm spares the speaker's father's house.

Mystery and Protection: The poem's closing lines introduce an ambiguous element—the storm's selective destruction. The phrase "lust quartering a tree" adds a layer of mystery, possibly hinting at divine intervention or an unexplained natural phenomenon. This ambiguity invites readers to ponder the forces beyond human understanding.

Symbols and Imagery

The wind and storm symbolize chaos and the unpredictable nature of life. The storm's progression from a "threatening tune" to full destruction mirrors life's sudden upheavals. The animals' reactions—birds hiding, cattle fleeing—emphasize the storm's terror, while the spared house introduces a symbol of inexplicable safety. The tree in the final line, "lust quartering," may represent nature's indifference or a lingering threat, leaving the poem open to interpretation.

Conclusion

Dickinson's poem masterfully captures the awe and terror of nature's power, while leaving room for mystery. The storm's destructive force contrasts with the unexplained survival of the father's house, suggesting themes of protection or randomness. The vivid imagery and shifting tone create a lasting impression of nature's dominance and human fragility. The poem's ambiguity invites readers to reflect on the unseen forces that shape our lives, making it a compelling exploration of the natural world's mysteries.