Poem Analysis - Tis Little I Could Care For Pearls

An Assertion of Inner Wealth

Emily Dickinson's "Tis Little I could Care For Pearls" is a bold declaration of self-sufficiency and inner riches. The poem exudes a tone of quiet confidence, bordering on defiance, as the speaker dismisses conventional symbols of wealth and power. It suggests that true value lies not in external possessions but in an internal state of sovereignty and abundance. The poem maintains this assured tone throughout, never wavering in its rejection of superficial allure.

Themes of Self-Sufficiency and Inner Sovereignty

One of the poem's central themes is self-sufficiency. The speaker minimizes the value of pearls, brooches, gold, and diamonds because she already possesses their symbolic equivalents in abundance. She "owns the ample sea," is "pelted" with rubies by the "Emperor," is "the Prince of Mines," and wears a "Diadem" continually. These images suggest that the speaker's inner world is so rich and powerful that external riches are insignificant. This feeds into the overarching theme of inner sovereignty. The speaker isn't merely wealthy; she is a ruler in her own right, a "Dom" with a perpetual diadem. This elevates her above the need for earthly validation or adornment. Finally, the poem subtly touches upon the theme of spiritual wealth, implying that the speaker's abundance stems from something deeper than material possessions, perhaps a connection to nature or a profound inner life.

Imagery of Abundance and Royal Authority

The poem is filled with vivid imagery that underscores the speaker's wealth and authority. The "ample sea" isn't just a source of pearls; it represents a vast, boundless resource entirely at the speaker's disposal. The image of the "Emperor" pelting her with rubies is particularly striking, suggesting not just wealth but also the deference of worldly power. The title of "Prince of Mines" similarly evokes control and dominion. The most significant symbol, however, is the "Diadem," which represents the speaker's constant state of royalty or spiritual elevation. It's "continual," emphasizing that this inner sovereignty is not a temporary state but an intrinsic part of her being.

The Continual Diadem: A Symbol of Lasting Inner Worth

The "Diadem" is arguably the most potent symbol in the poem. Unlike the other riches mentioned, which are external and potentially fleeting, the diadem is "continual." This suggests that the speaker's true value is not dependent on external validation or material possessions. It's a constant state of being, a recognition of her own inherent worth and authority. One might interpret the "Diadem" as a symbol of self-acceptance and spiritual fulfillment. It could also represent the power of imagination and the ability to create one's own reality, independent of societal expectations or material constraints. Is the "Dom" a reference to earthly dominion, or a reference to something far greater than human authority?

Final Thoughts: A Celebration of Inner Riches

In conclusion, "Tis Little I could Care For Pearls" is a powerful statement about the relative unimportance of material wealth compared to inner riches and self-possession. Through vivid imagery and confident pronouncements, Emily Dickinson creates a speaker who is sovereign in her own right, finding true value not in pearls or diamonds, but in the boundless resources of her own inner world. The poem celebrates the power of self-sufficiency and the enduring nature of inner worth, suggesting that true wealth lies not in what we possess, but in who we are.