What Are The Similarities Between Emily Dickinson and Edgar Allan Poe

When discussing American Gothic poetry, two names that often come to mind are Emily Dickinson and Edgar Allan Poe. Both poets are renowned for their dark and mysterious themes, exploring the depths of human emotions and the macabre. Despite their unique writing styles and individual perspectives, there are several striking similarities between Dickinson and Poe that can be found in their works. This essay will delve into these similarities, examining their use of symbolism, themes of death and the afterlife, and their exploration of the human psyche. By analyzing these commonalities, we can gain a deeper understanding of the American Gothic tradition and the enduring influence of these two remarkable poets.

Symbols and Imagery

One of the key similarities between Dickinson and Poe lies in their masterful use of symbolism and vivid imagery. Both poets employ a wide range of symbols and metaphors to create a sense of mystery and evoke intense emotions in their readers. For example, in Dickinson's poem "Because I could not stop for Death," she personifies Death as a gentleman, taking the speaker on a carriage ride towards eternity. This symbolizes the inevitability of death and the peaceful acceptance of one's mortality.

Similarly, Poe's works are filled with powerful symbolism and haunting imagery. In "The Raven," the raven itself becomes a symbol of death and the narrator's descent into madness. The repetition of the word "nevermore" creates a sense of despair and hopelessness, reflecting the dark emotions associated with Gothic literature.

Furthermore, both poets rely heavily on the use of nature as a symbol in their works. Dickinson often uses natural elements such as birds, flowers, and seasons to convey complex emotions and explore existential themes. Poe, on the other hand, frequently uses natural settings, such as gloomy forests and desolate landscapes, to enhance the eerie atmosphere of his poems. This shared use of symbolism and imagery contributes to the overall Gothic nature of their works.

Themes of Death and the Afterlife

Death and the afterlife are recurring themes in the works of both Dickinson and Poe. They explore the concept of mortality and the unknown, delving into the mysteries of what lies beyond life. In Dickinson's poems, death is often portrayed as a peaceful release or a transition into another realm. In "I heard a Fly buzz – when I died," the speaker describes the moment of death and the subsequent stillness, hinting at the possibility of an afterlife.

Similarly, Poe's poems often explore the dark and haunting aspects of death. In "Annabel Lee," the narrator mourns the death of his beloved and longs for their eternal reunion. The theme of death is also prevalent in Poe's famous poem "The Fall of the House of Usher," where the decay and destruction of the house mirror the mental and physical decay of the characters.

Through their exploration of death and the afterlife, both poets confront the fear and uncertainty that surrounds these topics. They offer different perspectives on mortality, with Dickinson embracing the idea of a peaceful afterlife, while Poe delves into the darker aspects of death, emphasizing its inevitable and haunting nature.

Exploration of the Human Psyche

Another significant similarity between Dickinson and Poe is their exploration of the human psyche. Both poets delve into the complexity of human emotions and the darker aspects of the human mind. Dickinson's works often reflect her introspective nature and her fascination with the inner workings of the human psyche. In poems such as "I felt a Funeral, in my Brain," she vividly portrays the descent into madness and the overwhelming emotional turmoil.

Poe, known for his psychological depth, delves into the realms of guilt, obsession, and insanity. In "The Tell-Tale Heart," the narrator's guilt and paranoia drive him to madness, resulting in the brutal murder of an old man. Poe's exploration of the human psyche is characterized by its intensity and its ability to captivate readers with its disturbing portrayals of the human mind.

By examining the works of Dickinson and Poe, it becomes evident that both poets share a deep fascination with the human psyche and its darker aspects. Their exploration of these themes adds depth and complexity to their poetry, making it a defining characteristic of the American Gothic tradition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the American Gothic poetry of Emily Dickinson and Edgar Allan Poe shares several similarities that contribute to their enduring influence and the lasting impact of their works. Through their use of symbolism and vivid imagery, both poets create a sense of mystery and evoke intense emotions in their readers. Themes of death and the afterlife further connect their works, with Dickinson emphasizing the peaceful acceptance of mortality and Poe delving into the darker aspects of death. Additionally, their exploration of the human psyche adds depth and complexity to their poetry, captivating readers with its psychological depth. By examining these similarities, we gain a deeper understanding of the American Gothic tradition and the profound contributions of these two remarkable poets.

Overall, the works of Dickinson and Poe continue to captivate readers with their haunting themes and profound insights into the human condition. Their ability to evoke intense emotions and explore the darker aspects of life and death solidifies their place in the canon of American Gothic poetry.

Bibliography

Dickinson, Emily. "Because I could not stop for Death." The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson. Back Bay Books, 1976.

Dickinson, Emily. "I heard a Fly buzz – when I died." The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson. Back Bay Books, 1976.

Poe, Edgar Allan. "The Raven." The Complete Tales and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe. Vintage Books, 1975.

Poe, Edgar Allan. "The Fall of the House of Usher." The Complete Tales and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe. Vintage Books, 1975.

Poe, Edgar Allan. "Annabel Lee." The Complete Tales and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe. Vintage Books, 1975.

Poe, Edgar Allan. "The Tell-Tale Heart." The Complete Tales and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe. Vintage Books, 1975.