Because I Could Not Stop For Death By Emily Dickinson

Poems are often written with a deeper meaning which can only be realized through critical analysis of the poems themes. Different poems are written with different intentions of the poet but the end message from the poem will depend on the view of the reader. One of the themes that is often found in some poems is the theme of death. For example, in the poem “Because I Could Not Stop for Death” written by Emily Dickinson she depict death as the main theme. The presentation of death in this poem is quite fascinating considering the fact that the poet tries to dispel the fears surrounding death. The poem “Because I Could Not Stop for Death” portrays the acceptance that Emily Dickenson shows about death. From the poem, it is easy to identify that Dickenson presents death as an experience that is not
The dress that she puts on is similar to those that are often used as a wedding dress, which symbolizes a new start, unlike dark funeral dresses which often mark the end of life. This is a clear identification of the transition stage from life to death; it is depicted as an experience that should not be feared. Furthermore, Dickenson describes the grave as a house, when she says, “We paused before a house…” (Dickenson, Stanza 5) This clearly demonstrates how Dickenson feels comfortable about dying rather than being filled with fear. From this poem, Dickenson has brought out death in a different perspective than what is normal in life such as death being a feared. The author depicts death as part of nature and a cycle that is never ending or escapable. In addition, the description of death and the perspective that the poet depicts is a reflection of her religious beliefs as well as her personality. Being a Christian believer she had optimism regarding the future and hence viewing death as a gateway to another life rather than a punishment to be