Poem Analysis - Why Make It Doubt It Hurts It So

A Portrait of Anguish and Uncertainty

Emily Dickinson's "Why Make It Doubt It Hurts It So" plunges into the depths of emotional torment, exploring the pain of uncertainty and the fear of abandonment. The poem's tone is initially one of pleading and questioning, gradually shifting to a stark declaration of misery. This emotional arc emphasizes the speaker's profound suffering. The poem is emotionally charged, evoking a sense of vulnerability and desperation as the speaker grapples with a potential loss of love or favor. It invites the reader to contemplate the debilitating effects of doubt and the human need for reassurance.

Themes of Doubt, Fear, and Spiritual Abandonment

One central theme is the agony of doubt. The opening line immediately establishes this, questioning why the "It" (likely representing a heart, soul, or the speaker's emotional core) is subjected to such torment. The "It" is "sick to guess," highlighting the debilitating effect of not knowing. This links to the theme of fear, specifically the fear of offending a higher power or loved one ("the Vision") and being forgotten. The poem culminates in the theme of spiritual abandonment, voiced in the cry, "Oh, Master, This is Misery." This suggests a fear of losing divine favor or the love of someone revered, leaving the speaker in profound isolation and despair. Dickinson presents a bleak view of the human condition, subject to powerful, unanswerable anxieties.

Recurring Imagery of Pain and Vulnerability

Dickinson employs several recurring images to enhance the poem's emotional impact. The image of "the Pinching fear" is particularly striking, creating a visceral sense of anxiety that constricts and suffocates. The "little Bed" where the "It" bravely tries to recall past assurances symbolizes vulnerability and helplessness in the face of overwhelming fear. These images contribute to a sense of fragility and emotional exposure. The word "Pinching" is a strong verb, describing a specific type of pain that is both restrictive and sharp. The contrast between "brave" and "little" emphasizes the vulnerability and powerlessness of 'it' as it faces a great unknown.

A Plea to a Powerful "Master"

The final two lines address a "Master," invoking a sense of supplication and desperation. This "Master" could represent God, a lover, or any figure of authority whose approval is craved. The speaker's plea, "This is Misery," is a direct and unambiguous declaration of suffering. The question arises: is the "Master" causing the doubt, or is the speaker appealing to the "Master" to alleviate it? The ambiguity surrounding the Master's role amplifies the poem's sense of uncertainty and despair, leaving the reader to ponder the source and nature of the speaker's anguish. The poem may be speaking to a patriarchal society in which, in order to maintain social standing, one would debase themselves and sacrifice autonomy in order to please this "Master."

Final Musings on the Poem's Significance

"Why Make It Doubt It Hurts It So" is a poignant exploration of the human experience of doubt, fear, and the potential for emotional and spiritual abandonment. Through vivid imagery and a shift from questioning to a stark declaration of misery, Dickinson creates a powerful portrayal of inner turmoil. The poem's significance lies in its ability to resonate with universal anxieties about love, acceptance, and the potential for profound isolation. It leaves the reader with a lingering sense of the fragility of the human spirit and the enduring power of doubt to inflict pain.