Poem Analysis - Those Who Have Been In The Grave The Longest

A Level Playing Field: Death's Great Equality

Emily Dickinson's "Those Who Have Been in the Grave the Longest" is a concise yet profound meditation on death, presenting it as an equalizer and a mystery. The poem's tone is initially declarative and almost clinical, establishing a seemingly objective truth about mortality. However, a subtle shift towards awe and speculation emerges as Dickinson explores the finality and unknowability of death, creating a sense of both certainty and wonder.

The Universal Experience: Mortality as a Theme

The central theme of this poem is undoubtedly mortality. Dickinson presents death as a universal experience, stating that both "Those who have been in the Grave the longest" and "Those who begin Today" ultimately share the same fate. This equality underscores the idea that death is indiscriminate and inevitable, a "Practise" that consumes all regardless of their past or present. The phrase "Death is the other way" suggests that death isn't an end, but a transition to a different realm, a concept often associated with mortality.

The White Exploit: An Ambiguous Symbol of Death

The image of the "White Exploit" is a potent and somewhat ambiguous symbol. While "exploit" implies an achievement, the color white is often associated with purity, peace, and, in some contexts, death. It can be interpreted as the ultimate accomplishment – the final transition to the afterlife or a state of being beyond our comprehension. The phrase "Once to achieve, annuls the power/Once to communicate" further adds to the mystery; the act of dying silences us, cutting off all communication with the living. This could also refer to the release of the spirit from its physical form. It creates a sense of the profound finality of death.

Defiance in the Face of Death: Death as Bold

The line, "Foot of the Bold did least attempt it" stands out. Here, Dickinson is hinting to the idea that death is the one thing the boldest person cannot overcome. Even the most fearless among us will eventually succumb to mortality, highlighting the limitations of human agency in the face of death. "Least attempt it" also suggests that death is something inevitable, and cannot be attempted at all. The power and reach of death is inescapable.

Conclusion: A Silent Transition

In conclusion, "Those Who Have Been in the Grave the Longest" is a brief but powerful exploration of death's universality and its unknowable nature. Dickinson employs vivid imagery and concise language to create a sense of both acceptance and awe. The poem ultimately suggests that death is not simply an end, but a mysterious and silent transition, an "other way" that forever changes our ability to interact with the world. The poem's quiet intensity encourages reflection on the ultimate fate that awaits us all.