Poem Analysis - We Bee And I Live By The Quaffing

A Toast to Life's Intoxications

Emily Dickinson's "We Bee and I live By The Quaffing" is a whimsical yet profound exploration of life's pleasures and the sources of joy that sustain us. The poem adopts a playful and celebratory tone, initially depicting a shared indulgence in various "wines" of life. However, a subtle undercurrent of mortality and acceptance emerges as the poem progresses, reminding us that even revelry is fleeting. The speaker equates their experiences with the actions of a bee, creating an interesting parallel.

Dickinson's Bacchanalian Spirit

While specific historical context isn't overtly vital to understanding this poem, Dickinson's reclusive nature and her inclination towards unconventional expression provide a backdrop. She often used metaphors and unconventional imagery to explore profound themes, which is clearly present here. Her inclination to look to the natural world is a key feature of many of her poems.

The Nectar of Existence: Themes of Revelry and Mortality

One central theme is the celebration of life's pleasures. The poem opens with an enthusiastic embrace of "quaffing," implying a constant pursuit of experiences that bring joy. The diverse range of "wines," from "Hock" and "Ale" to "Dim Burgundy," symbolizes the variety of experiences that life offers. A second theme is the symbiotic relationship with nature. The speaker identifies intimately with a bee, mirroring its actions and dependence on nectar. This connection suggests a harmonious existence within the natural world, where the speaker finds sustenance and pleasure. Finally, the poem subtly touches upon mortality and acceptance. The concluding lines, "Found dead of Nectar / By a humming Coroner / In a By-Thyme!" introduce a note of finality. Even in the midst of revelry, the poem acknowledges the inevitable end, suggesting a peaceful acceptance of death as a natural part of life's cycle.

Buzzing Symbols: Wine, Bees, and the Rhine

The poem is rich in symbolism. "Wine" serves as a metaphor for the intoxicating experiences that make life enjoyable. It encompasses not only literal wine but also the emotional, intellectual, and spiritual nourishment that sustains the speaker. The "Bee" symbolizes industriousness, dedication to finding pleasure, and a deep connection to nature. The bee's constant pursuit of nectar mirrors the speaker's own quest for life's delights. The "Rhine" river stands for the constant flow of life. The river's perpetual movement mirrors the continuous experience of life, both joyous and sorrowful. Is the "humming Coroner" a commentary on how even nature investigates the inevitable end?

A Final Drop: The Poem's Lasting Significance

"We Bee and I live By The Quaffing" is a complex meditation on life, pleasure, and death. It reminds us to embrace the "wines" of life, find solace in nature, and accept mortality as an intrinsic part of existence. Through its playful tone, vivid imagery, and subtle symbolism, the poem offers a unique perspective on the human condition, suggesting that even in the face of death, there is beauty and meaning to be found in the simple act of living and experiencing the world around us. The poem reminds us to appreciate the small delights that make life worthwhile.