Poem Analysis - To The Bright East She Flies

Introduction: A Journey Home and a Lingering Question

Emily Dickinson's "To the bright east she flies" is a short, evocative poem that speaks of a journey to paradise and the unsettling feeling of being lost even when at "home." The poem begins with a sense of hopeful ascension, a flight towards light and reunion. However, this initial optimism quickly gives way to a more melancholic and reflective tone, pondering the nature of existence and the elusive sense of belonging. The poem ultimately leaves the reader with a lingering question about the true meaning of "home."

Theme of Departure and Return: A Poetic Homecoming

One of the central themes of the poem is departure and return, particularly the idea of a soul returning "home" to "Paradise." The opening lines, "To the bright east she flies, / Brothers of Paradise / Remit her home," immediately establish this theme. The imagery of flight towards the "bright east" evokes a sense of spiritual ascension and liberation. This journey is presented as effortless and welcomed, "Without a change of wings, / Or Love’s convenient things, / Enticed to come." The ease with which the soul is drawn towards its final destination suggests a natural and inevitable process. However, the second stanza introduces a contrasting perspective, hinting that this return might not bring the expected solace.

The Enigmatic Nature of Existence: Questioning Reality

Another key theme explored in the poem is the enigmatic nature of existence and the difficulty of understanding our place in the world. The lines "Fashioning what she is, / Fathoming what she was, / We deem we dream –" suggest that our attempts to understand ourselves and our purpose are ultimately futile. The phrase "We deem we dream" creates a sense of uncertainty and detachment from reality. This uncertainty is further emphasized by the phrase "that dissolves the days," implying that the flow of time and the experiences we accumulate lose their significance in the face of this existential doubt. Dickinson uses very specific verbs "Fashioning" and "Fathoming" to indicate the active and thoughtful process of reflection on oneself.

Isolation and Displacement: The Paradox of "Homeless at Home"

A particularly poignant theme is that of isolation and displacement, captured in the paradoxical phrase "Homeless at home." This line suggests a profound sense of alienation, even in the place where one should feel most secure and connected. This phrase highlights the disconnect between physical location and emotional belonging, suggesting that true "home" is not simply a place, but a state of mind or a sense of inner peace. The soul, even upon returning to "Paradise," may still experience a sense of homelessness, suggesting a deeper longing that cannot be satisfied by a mere change of location. The phrase "existence strays" further reinforces this sense of wandering and lack of direction. The phrase "homeless at home" is a paradox, which causes the reader to stop and consider the intended meaning. It prompts a moment of reflection.

Symbolism of Flight and Light: Ascending to Understanding

The poem employs several recurring symbols that contribute to its overall meaning. The image of flight, particularly towards the "bright east," symbolizes spiritual ascension, freedom, and the journey towards enlightenment or salvation. The "bright east" itself represents hope, renewal, and the promise of a better existence. However, the poem also introduces a sense of uncertainty about the true nature of this "Paradise," suggesting that even in the face of such apparent beauty and promise, the soul may still grapple with fundamental questions about its identity and purpose. Light and darkness, implicit in "bright east" and the intangible nature of the dreamlike existence, is a recurring symbol in Dickinson’s work. Light often represents enlightenment and a clarity of understanding.

Conclusion: An Enduring Quest for Meaning

In conclusion, "To the bright east she flies" is a complex and thought-provoking poem that explores the themes of departure, return, the nature of existence, and the elusive search for "home." While the poem initially presents a hopeful image of spiritual ascension, it ultimately delves into the unsettling feeling of being lost and disconnected, even in the face of apparent paradise. The poem leaves the reader with a profound sense of ambiguity and a lingering question: can we ever truly find "home," or are we destined to remain "homeless at home," forever searching for a sense of belonging and meaning in a world that often feels alien and incomprehensible? The enduring power of Dickinson's poem lies in its ability to capture the universal human experience of seeking meaning and connection in a world filled with uncertainty.