The Robin

By Emily Elizabeth Dickinson

Lyric Poem
    The robin is the one     That interrupts the morn     With hurried, few, express reports     When March is scarcely on.     The robin is the one     That overflows the noon     With her cherubic quantity,     An April but begun.     The robin is the one     That speechless from her nest     Submits that home and certainty     And sanctity are best.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem employs the figure of the robin as a symbol to explore themes of transition, renewal, and the sanctity of home. The poet uses the robin's appearance and behavior to mark the progression of time, especially the change of seasons from winter to spring. The robin 'interrupts the morn' in March, 'overflows the noon' in April, signifying not just the passing of time but the very essence of these months as periods of transition and renewal.

The tone of the poem is one of reverence for the natural world and its rhythms, and the structure, with its repeated line 'The robin is the one', gives a sense of stability and certainty amidst change. The poet uses the literary device of personification, attributing human characteristics to the robin, such as 'her cherubic quantity', emphasizing its innocence and purity. The final stanza brings a profound conclusion, as the robin 'submits that home and certainty / And sanctity are best', suggesting a deep wisdom in the natural world's acceptance and embodiment of constancy and peace. Overall, the poem beautifully melds the themes of transition and constancy, demonstrating a deep respect and reverence for the natural world's rhythms and wisdom.

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.