1. Metaphor and Symbolism:
* "The Sabbath": This represents both the traditional Christian Sabbath and the concept of spiritual rest and connection.
* "The Church": This is a symbol of organized religion and the institution of worship.
* "The Morning": Represents the beginning of a new spiritual journey or day of reflection.
* "The Bells": Symbolizes the call to worship, the summoning of the soul.
* "The Window": Represents the separation between the world and the spiritual realm, allowing for a glimpse of the divine.
* "The Christ": The central figure of Christianity, representing redemption and spiritual guidance.
2. Personification:
* "The Sun": The sun is described as "a shining Shuttle" which "weaves a golden thread" across the sky, personifying the natural world and suggesting divine artistry.
* "The Bells": The bells are said to "break the Sabbath" – personifying them as a force that disrupts the quietness and peace of the spiritual experience.
3. Imagery:
* Visual imagery: Dickinson creates vivid imagery with phrases like "a shining Shuttle", "a golden thread", and "the Christ in the Corner."
* Auditory imagery: The "Bells" and the "slow Train" are central to the poem, creating a sense of sound and movement.
4. Contrast and Paradox:
* Interior vs. Exterior: The poem contrasts the traditional outward experience of going to church with the speaker's inward journey of spiritual connection.
* "The slow Train" vs. "The Christ in the Corner": The slow train, a symbol of physical travel, is contrasted with the stillness of the Christ, highlighting the spiritual journey over the physical.
5. Tone and Mood:
* Reverent and contemplative: The poem's overall tone is one of quiet contemplation and spiritual devotion.
* Understated yet powerful: Dickinson uses simple language but creates a profound impact through the use of symbolism and metaphor.
6. Structure and Rhyme Scheme:
* Four stanzas: The poem is structured into four stanzas of four lines each.
* ABAB rhyme scheme: Dickinson uses a consistent ABAB rhyme scheme, creating a sense of rhythm and flow.
7. Conciseness and Compression:
* Dickinson is known for her brief, impactful poems. "Some keep the Sabbath" exemplifies this, with each line carrying significant weight.
8. Theme of Spiritual Connection:
The poem ultimately explores the individual's relationship with God and the idea that a truly spiritual connection can be found in solitude and introspection, just as readily as it can be found in a physical church.
By understanding these poetic elements, you can gain a deeper appreciation of Dickinson's unique style and the message she conveys in "Some keep the Sabbath going to Church."