The Secret is a poem written by Emily Dickinson, one of the most influential American poets of the 19th century. Dickinson was known for her unconventional use of language and her ability to express complex emotions and ideas in a concise and powerful way. In this poem, Dickinson explores the concept of secrecy and the ways in which it can both conceal and reveal aspects of the human experience.
The poem begins with the line "There is a pain - so utter - / It swallows substance up - / Then covers the Abyss with Trance - / So Memory can step / Around - across - upon it - / As one within a Swoon - / Goes safely - where an open eye - / Would drop Him - Bone by Bone." This opening stanza sets the tone for the rest of the poem, as it describes the pain of secrecy and the way it can be both all-consuming and disguising. The use of the word "Trance" suggests that secrecy can be a kind of escape or escape hatch, allowing us to avoid facing the pain or difficulties of our lives. At the same time, the phrase "Memory can step / Around - across - upon it" suggests that secrecy can also be a kind of bridge or scaffold, allowing us to explore and make sense of our experiences in a way that we might not be able to do if everything were out in the open.
The second stanza of the poem continues this theme, with the line "But oh, the Bliss of the Experience! / The Rapture of the obtained!" This line suggests that secrecy can also bring moments of joy and happiness, as it allows us to keep certain aspects of our lives private and personal. The use of the word "Rapture" suggests that secrecy can be a kind of spiritual experience, a way of connecting with something deeper and more meaningful within ourselves.
The final stanza of the poem brings these themes together, as it speaks to the way that secrecy can both protect and expose us. The line "To know the Other Side exists - / To know the Road - / So vividly - to see the Grass - / So close - the side to hide - / And cherish a delight, / That none may know but We - / "The Secret" - is so sweet - / And this is all We get - / Until We die" suggests that secrecy can give us a sense of intimacy and connection with others, as it allows us to share something special and unique with someone else. At the same time, the final line "Until We die" suggests that secrecy is ultimately a temporary and fleeting thing, as it can only be maintained until death separates us from those we have shared our secrets with.
In conclusion, Emily Dickinson's poem The Secret is a thought-provoking and emotionally powerful exploration of the concept of secrecy and the ways in which it can both conceal and reveal aspects of the human experience. Through her use of vivid imagery and evocative language, Dickinson captures the complexity and ambivalence of secrecy, showing how it can bring both pain and joy, protection and exposure, and ultimately, a sense of connection and intimacy with others.
