Poem Analysis - Tis Opposites Entice

Introduction: The Allure of What We Lack

Emily Dickinson's "‘Tis Opposites Entice" is a compact and thought-provoking exploration of desire and longing. The poem, characteristic of Dickinson's style, uses concise language and unexpected juxtapositions to reveal the human tendency to crave what is absent or unattainable. The poem begins with a statement of principle and evolves into a more personal and perhaps even defiant declaration, leaving the reader to consider the nature of spiritual or emotional fulfillment. The overall tone is initially observational but shifts to become more intense and intimate, culminating in a singular, powerful assertion.

Theme of Yearning: Finding Beauty in Absence

One of the central themes in this poem is the human tendency to yearn for what is lacking. The opening lines, "‘Tis Opposites entice / Deformed Men ponder Grace," immediately establish this idea. A person considered deformed might long for grace, someone without a blanket longs for heat from fire. This extends to broader concepts of deprivation, such as "The Lost Day's face," implying a desire for lost time or opportunity. This yearning isn't merely a superficial desire; it represents a deeper human need for completeness and a search for an ideal that is often found in the opposite of one's present condition. Dickinson crafts a world where the absent elements become objects of intense contemplation and even reverence.

Spiritual Hunger: Yearning for a Higher Power

The poem also explores spiritual longing. The lines, "To lack enamor Thee / Tho’ the Divinity / Be only / Me," suggest a complex relationship with a higher power. The speaker seems to suggest that the very act of lacking, of feeling incomplete, fuels an attraction toward the divine. However, the twist comes with the declaration that "Divinity / Be only / Me." This could be interpreted as a moment of self-deification, where the speaker finds the divine within herself. Alternatively, it may be a more subtle statement about the nature of God being present in all of us. The ambiguity enhances the poem's power, inviting the reader to ponder the location and nature of spiritual satisfaction.

Imagery of Deprivation: Symbolism of Blindness and Captivity

Dickinson employs potent imagery to underscore the theme of desire born from deprivation. The image of "The Blind esteem it be / Enough Estate to see" highlights the value placed on something taken for granted by those who possess it. Similarly, "The Captive strangles new / For deeming Beggars play" portrays a desperate attempt to escape confinement, suggesting that freedom is most valued by those who lack it. The word "strangles" is particularly striking. It carries a violent connotation, emphasizing the intense nature of the desire for freedom and highlighting the mental torment of the captive. The beggars play is an illusion, perhaps a false sense of freedom. These images are not just about physical lack, but also about emotional and spiritual limitations that drive the human spirit to seek something more.

Conclusion: Finding Divinity Within

In conclusion, "‘Tis Opposites Entice" is a powerful meditation on the human condition, exploring the ways in which absence shapes our desires and aspirations. Through vivid imagery and concise language, Dickinson highlights the universal tendency to crave what is lacking, whether it be physical comfort, freedom, or spiritual fulfillment. The poem ultimately suggests that the source of this fulfillment, or at least the object of intense longing, may reside within oneself. The ambiguous and defiant declaration of "Divinity / Be only / Me" offers a provocative insight into the speaker's sense of self and the nature of divinity, making this poem a lasting exploration of the human spirit's capacity for desire and self-discovery. Ultimately, the poem captures how our perceived flaws and imperfections might be what drive us towards self-actualization.