Poem Analysis - This Bauble Was Preferred Of Bees

A Tiny Universe of Admiration

Emily Dickinson's "This Bauble Was Preferred Of Bees" is a delicate and reverent exploration of nature's beauty and the quiet power of creation. The poem, with its characteristic brevity and slant rhyme, focuses on a single, unspecified "Bauble," likely a flower, and elevates it to a position of near-divine importance within its own small ecosystem. The tone is initially celebratory and admiring, shifting to a more profound contemplation of the flower's self-contained world and its impact on the creatures around it. Ultimately, the poem suggests that true beauty lies in simplicity and the ability to create joy and wonder, even on a small scale.

The Flower as a Focal Point

One of the poem's central themes is the power of creation. The flower isn't just a passive object; it "created Her" universe, at least for those creatures who only know the world through its presence. This hints at the idea that even the smallest things can have a profound impact on the world around them, shaping perceptions and experiences. The use of "Her" to describe the universe gives it a distinctly feminine quality, perhaps alluding to the generative and nurturing aspects of nature. It positions the flower not just as something that exists, but as an active force of creation.

Bees, Butterflies, and Birds: A Hierarchy of Adoration

The poem uses imagery of bees, butterflies, and birds to demonstrate the flower's appeal. The bees "preferred" the bauble, suggesting a practical appreciation for its nectar. The butterflies "admired" it, hinting at a more aesthetic attraction. The birds, at "Heavenly Hopeless Distances," still find the flower "justified," implying a broader, almost spiritual validation. This suggests a hierarchy of appreciation, with each creature finding value in the flower according to its own perspective and needs. This layered appreciation further underscores the flower's multifaceted nature and its ability to resonate with a variety of beings.

Enameling and Endless Summers: Visual and Temporal Abundance

The lines "Did Noon enamel in Herself / Was Summer to a Score" offer vivid imagery of the flower's vibrancy and enduring beauty. "Enamel" suggests a glossy, jewel-like surface, highlighting the flower's visual appeal. The phrase "Summer to a Score" implies that the flower embodies the essence of summer, extending it beyond its natural duration. This could be interpreted as the flower offering sustenance and joy, effectively creating an extended summer for the creatures around it. It also symbolizes how the flower, in its beauty, defies the limitations of time. This imagery works to amplify the flower's importance and impact, transforming it from a simple bloom into a source of unending vitality and pleasure.

A Lasting Impression of Miniature Grandeur

In conclusion, "This Bauble Was Preferred Of Bees" is a concise but powerful meditation on beauty, creation, and the interconnectedness of nature. The poem elevates a seemingly insignificant flower to a position of central importance, demonstrating its ability to shape the experiences of the creatures around it. Through vivid imagery and careful word choice, Dickinson suggests that true beauty lies not in grand displays, but in the quiet ability to create a world of wonder and sustenance, even within the smallest of spaces. Ultimately, the poem invites us to appreciate the profound impact of simple things and to recognize the inherent value in every facet of the natural world.