Where I have lost, I softer tread —
I sow sweet flower from garden bed —
I pause above that vanished head
And mourn.

Whom I have lost, I pious guard
From accent harsh, or ruthless word —
Feeling as if their pillow heard,
Though stone!

When I have lost, you’ll know by this —
A Bonnet black — A dusk surplice —
A little tremor in my voice Like this!

Why, I have lost, the people know
Who dressed in flocks of purest snow
Went home a century ago
Next Bliss!

Analysis, meaning and summary of Emily Dickinson's poem Where I have lost, I softer tread

3 Comments

  1. frumpo says:

    When people I love die, I mourn sadly in confusion. Saints a century ago were joyful.

  2. dude van joe says:

    i think this poem rolls hard

  3. Jamie says:

    I love how this poem portrays the pain that Dickinson felt due to her recluse like lifestyle. and how she longed to be free of it.

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