Ah, Emily - January 28, 2016

Emily Dickenson, so out of step with her culture of the times, and even now remaining abstruse, is alive and layered. Along with the romantic reading of poem 269, the "Done with the compass -  Done with the chart" lines capture my interest and resonate with my spirit of adventure and curiosity. And to think, she didn't need to leave home to feel the call of adventure. What a gift! And thank goodness for Modpo close readings.

                                       Wild nights - Wild nights!

                                       Were I with thee

                                       Wild nights should be

                                       Our luxury!

                                       Futile the winds - 

                                       To a heart in port -
                                       Done with the compass - 
                                       Done with the chart!

                                       Rowing in Eden -
                                       Ah - the sea!
                                       Might I but moor - tonight -
                                       In thee!