Exploring Connection in Emily Dickinson’s Poetics

Abstract

This article examines Emily Dickinson’s poetics through the lens of connection, interpreting her perceived disconnection as a deliberate retreat to foster creativity and self-awareness. Using Carl Jung’s concept of “twin existences” and Kae Tempest’s insights on present awareness, the study explores how Dickinson’s emphasis on the “Eternal Now” underscores the significance of everyday action in affirming human existence and creating a sense of connection with oneself and others. Drawing on several of Dickinson’s poems and letter fragments, as well as historical and feminist interpretations of her life, this article argues that her rejection of conventional standards allowed for a profound engagement with the dualities of life—connection and disconnection, life and death. This analysis offers a new perspective on Dickinson’s work and life, revealing how her poetic practices advocate for the daily nurturing of meaningful connections, contributing to broader discussions on creativity and human interaction.