A Book

By Emily Elizabeth Dickinson

Lyric Poem
    There is no frigate like a book     To take us lands away,     Nor any coursers like a page     Of prancing poetry.     This traverse may the poorest take     Without oppress of toll;     How frugal is the chariot     That bears a human soul!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This is a compelling poem that explores the theme of literature's transportive power. Specifically, it uses vivid metaphors to portray reading as an accessible journey, with books serving as frigates and pages as coursers to take readers to far-off places. The tone is one of reverence and appreciation for the power of the written word, highlighting its capacity to provide escape, adventure, and knowledge.

The poem's structure is tight and rhythmic, with a straightforward ABAB rhyme scheme that lends a sense of movement and progression. It's rich in literary devices, particularly metaphors. The comparison of a book to a frigate and a page to courser horses paints a vivid picture of literature's ability to transport us. The use of 'oppress of toll' and 'frugal is the chariot' underscores the accessibility of this journey, emphasizing that the transformative power of literature is available to everyone, regardless of their economic status. The final line, 'That bears a human soul,' is an eloquent testament to the profound impact of reading on the human consciousness. This poem, therefore, pays a heartfelt tribute to the power and universality of literature.

Exploring Lyric Poetry

Lyric poetry is a powerful and intimate form of expression, characterized by its focus on the personal emotions and thoughts of the poet. Often musical in nature, lyric poems resonate with readers through their vivid language and rhythmic flow, capturing moments of intense feeling.

Here are some key characteristics that define lyric poetry:

  • Expressive Language: Lyric poems use rich and evocative language to convey deep emotions, often painting a vivid picture of the poet's inner world.
  • Personal Perspective: Typically written in the first person, these poems offer a window into the poet's personal experiences, thoughts, and reflections.
  • Musicality: Lyric poems often feature a rhythmic structure, with meter and rhyme that give them a song-like quality, enhancing the emotional impact.

From ancient odes to contemporary free verse, lyric poetry remains a beloved and enduring form, celebrated for its ability to articulate the nuances of human emotion in a way that resonates deeply with readers.