Analysis Of Because I Could Not Stop For Death Essay

Analysis of Because I Could Not Stop for Death by Emily Dickenson

In Dickensons poem, Because I Could Not Stop for Death, she gives death a personification. Death is a character, a gentleman suitor of kindness and civility. Death never rushed her, or stole her. He did not push her to communicate with him, but Immortality, who is also in the carriage (or hearse), would be their chaperon, a silent one. For they all would leave this life in not a fuss, but pleasantly and in a sophisticated manor. They would not cause a scene, but continue on their journey, for again, Death was respectful and wished to be as discreet and deferential as possible.

He took her on a carriage ride of what appears to be her life. It began with childhood, passing the school with children enjoying their recess and freedom; the joy and simplicity they found in life alone was a beautiful sight. The drive continued to her wedding, where she addresses the gown. One can picture the tulle and gossamer, flowers all around. Her wedding is said to be the happiest day in a womans life. Finally, they passed on to her years an old woman, like the house, where its beauty had faded with age and it was crumpling in. It was sinking into the ground, as an elderly person does when they see all of their friends and family being buried, because its that time.

It mentions how the sun passes them, for they do not move. Life is going on without her. The carriage ride is a symbol of her leaving life. This is her passing on, as one might say, Going toward the light. She has lived a long and busy life; she never had time to die. So, instead, Death came and picked her up. He took her so she would not feel guilty, inconvenienced, robbed of time, or any related emotions or reactions. Death had waited to pick her up until the right time, a time meant for her specifically. She has lived a long and prosperous life, one she wouldnt change for the world, but as she saw heaven or eternity ahead of the horses of the carriage, she was finally at peace.