There is no Frigat like a Book

At first glance it may seem that Emily Dickinson has written a simple poem in “There Is No Frigate like a Book”. However, further analysis reveals that she believes reading is a gift to all. Through observation of the poem we find her fascination with reading and the poem’s ability to take her reader on a journey; as well as reveal how reading can take us on any journey we wish to embark. The theme of the poem is that when we use our imagination while reading anything is possible, even travel to distant lands. The first clue that reveals this poem is about traveling through literature lies within its title. A frigate is a U.S. warship used mainly for escorting. The clever comparison of a frigate and a book set the tone and create excitement about where we will go. It is also this comparison that allows us to compare the necessary physical means required to take us on our adventure. The first thing that is noticed is the use of figurative language. The figurative language used in this writing is referred to as simile. A simile is a phrase that compares two different things. In lines 3 and 4 “nor any coursers like a page… of prancing poetry” we find the most obvious use of simile when comparing a horse to pages in a book. The other use of simile used in the poem is when Emily says, “There is no frigate like a book” as she compares the U.S. warship to a book. The use of sound devices also allows the reader to take a journey while reading “There Is No Frigate like a Book”. For example, in comparing a book to a frigate we are prompted to consider what a ship might look like. This exploration can lead us to thinking about what it feels like to be Karber 5

on a ship, how a ship moves, and where a ship might go. Our imaginations are ignited as we consider what sights, sounds or smells are found on a ship. When we allow ourselves to go on this imaginary ship we are taken on a journey in our minds that allow us to experience the gift of reading and engaging