Analysis of Emily Dickinson's "The Soul selects her own Society"

Emily Dickinson penned "The Soul selects her own Society" in 1862, presenting a ballad composed of three stanzas, each consisting of four lines, and employing a unique slant rhyme scheme (ABAB). This poem delves into themes of isolation, selectivity, and the unwavering nature of individual choices within society.

An Exploration of Theme

The central theme of "The Soul selects her own Society" revolves around the tendency of individuals in society to live in seclusion, selectively interacting only with a chosen few. Dickinson vividly illustrates how these choices are typically resolute and unyielding.

The poem unfolds as an extended metaphor, where the soul is portrayed as a discerning entity that decisively "shuts the Door" to external influences, effectively erecting a barrier of isolation around itself. This metaphorical door becomes the poem's focal point, underscoring the steadfastness of the soul's decisions.

Throughout the poem, Dickinson reinforces the notion that once the soul makes a choice, it remains impervious to external pressures. This is evident in the references to formidable imagery, such as "Chariots" and "an Emperor" that come to a halt at the "Gate" guarding the soul.

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Even these majestic symbols of grandeur and power are powerless against the soul's defenses. Dickinson places considerable emphasis on the unyielding nature of the "Gate," describing it as "hard Like Stone" to emphasize its impenetrability.

Dickinson employs explicit and evocative imagery to convey the resoluteness of the soul's barrier. The mention of "Chariots," symbolizing the most splendid mode of transportation, and "Emperors," representing the pinnacle of authority, serves to accentuate the soul's rejection of even the most extraordinary entities.

The poem thus evokes a powerful image of the soul's unwavering determination to remain impervious to external influence, regardless of material wealth or power.

Furthermore, the poem is characterized by an authoritative voice, as if spoken from a higher power. Rather than the door merely closing, the soul is described as actively and decisively "shutting the Door" – a gesture of unequivocal authority. It is noteworthy, however, that Dickinson selects the image of a door as the barrier. Unlike walls or other barriers, a door can be opened once it is closed, suggesting that individuals who isolate themselves possess the potential for change and personal growth.

The Significance of "Valves of her attention"

The final stanza of the poem introduces the phrase "Valves of her attention." Here, Dickinson employs the imagery of valves as switches that can be toggled on and off at will. This notion of flexibility is juxtaposed with the phrase "Like Stone," serving as a reminder of the poem's core premise – the soul's decisions remain steadfast and unyielding, even though the potential for change exists.

Moreover, Dickinson introduces a paradox by referring to the selected individuals as the "divine Majority." The term "divine" typically conveys an elite status that does not constitute the "Majority" of the population. However, by characterizing these chosen few as the majority, Dickinson underscores their profound significance to the individual, highlighting the immense importance they hold in the soul's selective society.

Conclusion

"The Soul selects her own Society" by Emily Dickinson is a masterful exploration of the human inclination toward isolation and selectivity in social interactions. Through vivid imagery and metaphor, Dickinson conveys the unwavering nature of individual choices and the resolute barriers that individuals construct around themselves. The poem suggests that while these choices may seem unyielding, the potential for change and personal growth always exists.

Furthermore, the paradoxical notion of the "divine Majority" emphasizes the profound significance of the chosen few in an individual's life, highlighting their role as the cornerstone of one's selective society.

In essence, "The Soul selects her own Society" invites readers to contemplate the enduring nature of their own choices and the selectivity inherent in the human experience.