Poem Analysis - What Soft Cherubic Creatures

Introduction: A Gentle Critique

Emily Dickinson's "What Soft Cherubic Creatures" presents a biting critique of a certain type of womanhood prevalent in her time. The poem begins with a seemingly complimentary tone, describing these women as angelic and delicate. However, this facade quickly crumbles as Dickinson exposes the superficiality and moral shortcomings she perceives beneath their refined exterior. The poem shifts from gentle observation to sharp condemnation, revealing a deep-seated frustration with their disconnection from genuine human experience and faith.

Dickinson's Context: Challenging Societal Norms

Emily Dickinson lived in a society that placed immense pressure on women to conform to ideals of purity, piety, and domesticity. Often viewed as the "weaker sex," women were expected to embody gentility and suppress any unconventional thoughts or desires. Dickinson, known for her rebellious spirit and unconventional lifestyle, frequently challenged these societal norms in her poetry. "What Soft Cherubic Creatures" can be seen as a direct response to this pressure, exposing the hypocrisy she observed in women who prioritized appearances over genuine connection and empathy.

Theme 1: The Facade of Refinement

One of the central themes is the poem's exploration of the superficiality of refined behavior. The opening lines, "What Soft Cherubic Creatures/ These Gentlewomen are," establish an image of angelic innocence. Yet, the subsequent lines reveal the limitations of this facade. Comparing these women to "Plush" and "a Star" suggests they are untouchable and distant, more like decorative objects than real human beings. This imagery emphasizes their detachment from the messiness and imperfections of ordinary life, highlighting the artificiality of their gentility.

Theme 2: Fear of Human Imperfection

Another significant theme is the horror of human imperfection and the attempt to distance oneself from it. The phrase "Of freckled Human Nature/ Of Deity ashamed" is crucial. It suggests these women are so afraid of showing any flaws or imperfections (represented by "freckled Human Nature") that they are even ashamed of the very nature of humanity that God created. This highlights a profound disconnect between their cultivated image and the realities of human existence, pointing to a lack of self-acceptance and compassion.

Theme 3: Hypocrisy and Hollow Faith

The poem also tackles the theme of hypocrisy and a shallow understanding of faith. The lines "It’s such a common Glory/ A Fisherman’s Degree/ Redemption Brittle Lady/ Be so ashamed of Thee" are particularly scathing. Here, Dickinson contrasts the women's self-perceived superiority with the humble origins of Christianity, symbolized by the "Fisherman's Degree" (referencing the apostles). The phrase "Redemption Brittle Lady" implies their faith is fragile and easily broken, suggesting a lack of genuine spiritual depth. They should be ashamed of their artificial piety when they show the opposite of the spirit of Christian redemption.

Symbolism: Plush, Stars, and Freckles

Several recurring symbols contribute to the poem's overall message. "Plush" and "Stars" represent the untouchable, artificial perfection these women strive for. They are beautiful to look at but ultimately lifeless and devoid of substance. In contrast, "freckled Human Nature" symbolizes the imperfections and vulnerabilities that make us human. These freckles, typically viewed as blemishes, become a symbol of authenticity and the richness of human experience. The poem suggests that embracing these imperfections is essential for genuine connection and spiritual growth, a concept foreign to the women Dickinson describes.

Conclusion: A Call for Authenticity

"What Soft Cherubic Creatures" is more than just a critique of societal expectations; it is a call for authenticity and genuine human connection. By exposing the superficiality and moral shortcomings of these "gentlewomen," Dickinson urges us to embrace our imperfections and connect with the world on a deeper, more meaningful level. The poem reminds us that true beauty and strength lie not in maintaining a flawless facade, but in accepting our shared humanity and living with compassion and empathy. The poem leaves the reader contemplating the dangers of prioritizing appearance over substance, and the importance of embracing the "freckles" that make us human.