Poem Analysis - When Memory Is Full

Introduction: Containing the Overflow

Emily Dickinson’s "When Memory is full" is a concise and evocative poem about the management of overwhelming memories. The poem's tone is initially matter-of-fact, almost clinical, in its instruction, but it subtly shifts to incorporate a sense of foreboding and the potential for regret. It explores the idea of suppressing or controlling memories, suggesting a tension between the natural accumulation of experience and the desire for mental order. The poem's brevity underscores the weight and urgency of its message.

The Burden of Remembrance: A Theme of Suppression

One primary theme of the poem is the suppression of memory, particularly when it becomes overwhelming. The opening lines, "When Memory is full / Put on the perfect Lid," immediately establish the need to contain or control mental experience. This suggests a fear of being consumed by the past, a desire to maintain a sense of composure in the face of accumulated experiences. The image of a "lid" symbolizes the act of consciously shutting off certain memories, perhaps to avoid pain or discomfort. This theme suggests the human desire to control narrative, to limit recall for mental self-preservation. This is further illustrated through the speaker's use of the word perfect, emphasizing not just any method will do, but only the best means of suppressing memory.

Morning and Evening: A Symbolism of Shifting Perspectives

The poem employs the contrasting images of "Morning" and "Evening" to represent different perspectives on the act of suppressing memory. "This Morning’s finest syllable" likely refers to a fresh, optimistic outlook where the need for containment seems obvious and justified. "Presumptuous Evening said," suggests a later, perhaps wiser or more regretful perspective. Evening, associated with reflection and the end of the day, judges the morning's actions as "presumptuous," implying that the act of suppressing memory might be seen as arrogant or misguided in retrospect. This introduces a moral ambiguity, questioning the wisdom of actively controlling one's memories. The poem does not outright condemn the morning's actions, but raises doubt about the long-term consequences of actively suppressing moments in time.

The Delicate Syllable: Imagery of Fragility

The phrase "finest syllable" is a particularly evocative image. A syllable, a small unit of language, represents a fragment of experience or memory. Describing it as "finest" suggests something precious and valuable, something worthy of consideration. The poem's selection of this word choice reveals the delicacy of memory and the weight associated with shutting it away. In this context the "lid" can be interpreted as a means to protect the delicate and precious memories, or perhaps to hide the true nature of the memory so as to not hurt those around the speaker. Perhaps the speaker seeks to control the stories told to others, thus managing how they remember.

Concluding Thoughts: A Question of Balance

In conclusion, "When Memory is full" is a powerful meditation on the act of controlling and suppressing memories. Dickinson’s concise language and potent imagery create a sense of urgency and moral ambiguity. The poem grapples with the tension between the desire for mental order and the potential regret of silencing one's own experiences. It leaves the reader pondering the long-term implications of "putting on the perfect Lid" and questioning whether the act of suppression ultimately serves or diminishes us.