Emily Dickinson, the enigmatic poet of Amherst, left behind not only a treasure trove of unconventional verse but also a wealth of wisdom on the craft of writing, tucked away within her letters. While modern writers often clamor for attention, Dickinson’s advice, gleaned from her correspondence, offers a unique and powerful perspective on the art of poetry. Her most famous dictum, “Tell all the truth but tell it slant,” encapsulates her approach, emphasizing the power of indirectness and suggestion in conveying profound meaning.
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The Power of the Unsaid in an Emily Dickinson Poem
Dickinson’s approach to poetry wasn’t about meticulous control but about embracing the unconscious, allowing the “circumference” of a poem to resonate with unspoken truths. This “slant” approach allows for multiple interpretations, enriching the poem with layers of meaning that go beyond the poet’s conscious intent. This echoes my own experience in a college poetry workshop where my professor unearthed meanings in my poem that I hadn’t consciously intended, demonstrating the power of the subconscious in creative writing.
Beneath the Iceberg. Watercolor. Janice Greenwood. Original Art.
Dickinson’s belief in the importance of the unsaid is reflected in her statement, “It is strange that the most intangible thing is the most adhesive.” These intangible elements, the things hinted at but not explicitly stated, are what stick with the reader, sparking contemplation and allowing for personal connections with the poem.
Emily Dickinson’s Enduring Writing Advice
Beyond her famous “slant” advice, Dickinson’s letters offer a plethora of insights for aspiring poets:
Simplicity and Authenticity
Dickinson advocated for simplicity, cautioning against “flowers of speech” that embellish and obscure the truth. She believed in the power of direct language, stripped of unnecessary ornamentation. This resonates with her own poetic style, characterized by concise phrasing and evocative imagery.
Embracing Criticism
Dickinson actively sought criticism, comparing the role of an editor to a surgeon who “sets” a fractured bone. Her correspondence with Thomas Wentworth Higginson exemplifies her willingness to receive feedback and refine her work. She understood that honest critique is essential for growth and development as a writer.
Defining Poetry
Dickinson’s definition of poetry is visceral and deeply personal: “If I read a book and it makes my whole body so cold no fire can ever warm me, I know that is poetry.” This emphasizes the emotional impact that true poetry should have, a transformative experience that resonates on a physical and spiritual level.
The Sanctity of the Spirit
Dickinson believed in the sanctity of the writer’s spirit, warning against “selling out” for material gain: “Do not defraud these, for gold may be bought, and purple may be bought, but the sale of the spirit never did occur.” This underscores the importance of artistic integrity and staying true to one’s unique voice.
Finding Truth in the Slant: A Legacy of Emily Dickinson Poems
Dickinson’s advice transcends the technical aspects of writing, delving into the very essence of artistic expression. It’s a call to embrace the unconscious, to value the unsaid, and to prioritize truth above all else. Her poems, like her letters, invite us to explore the hidden depths of meaning, to find the truth in the slant of light, and to connect with the profound emotions that lie beneath the surface of language.
Her humility, her dedication to her craft, and her unwavering commitment to truth make her advice timeless and invaluable for any writer seeking to connect with their own creative voice and to craft poetry that resonates with enduring power.