Emily Dickinson: An Epicurean Poet and the Joy of Contemplation

Emily Dickinson: An Epicurean Poet

Emily Dickinson, the renowned American poet, was not only a master of words but also a practitioner of the philosophy of Epicureanism. Epicureanism, a school of thought that originated in ancient Greece, emphasizes the pursuit of pleasure and the importance of finding joy in simple pleasures. For Dickinson, this philosophy manifested in her love for contemplation, meditation, reading, and writing.

The Joy of Contemplation

One of the core tenets of Epicureanism is the belief that true pleasure can be found in the joy of contemplation. Dickinson, known for her introspective and reflective poetry, exemplified this principle in her work. Through her poems, she invites readers to delve into the depths of their own thoughts and emotions, encouraging them to find solace and satisfaction in self-reflection.

Dickinson's poems often explore themes of nature, love, and mortality, inviting readers to contemplate their own existence and the world around them. In her poem "I Dwell in Possibility," she writes:

I dwell in Possibility –
A fairer House than Prose –
More numerous of Windows –
Superior – for Doors –

Through her vivid imagery and evocative language, Dickinson invites readers to explore the possibilities that lie within their own minds. She encourages them to find pleasure in the act of contemplation, in the exploration of ideas and the limitless potential of the imagination.

The Art of Meditation

Another aspect of Epicureanism that resonated with Dickinson was the practice of meditation. Meditation, in the Epicurean sense, involves quieting the mind and finding inner peace through focused thought and reflection. Dickinson, known for her reclusive nature, often sought solace and clarity through moments of quiet contemplation.

In her poem "The Brain – is wider than the Sky –," Dickinson explores the power of the mind and the vastness of human thought:

The Brain – is wider than the Sky –
For – put them side by side –
The one the other will contain
With ease – and You – beside –

Through these lines, Dickinson invites readers to consider the limitless expanse of the mind and the potential for discovery and enlightenment that can be found within. She encourages the practice of meditation as a means of expanding one's consciousness and finding pleasure in the exploration of one's own thoughts and ideas.

The Pleasure of Reading and Writing

In addition to contemplation and meditation, Dickinson found great pleasure in the pursuits of reading and writing. She was an avid reader and drew inspiration from a wide range of literary works. Her love for literature is evident in her poem "There is no Frigate like a Book –," where she celebrates the power of books to transport the reader to new worlds:

There is no Frigate like a Book
To take us Lands away,
Nor any Coursers like a Page
Of prancing Poetry –

Dickinson recognized the joy and escapism that can be found in the pages of a book, and she herself provided that same pleasure to her readers through her own poetry. Her poems, with their rich imagery and profound insights, continue to captivate and inspire readers to this day.

Finding Space for Ourselves

In a world filled with constant distractions and noise, Dickinson's embrace of Epicureanism serves as a reminder of the importance of finding space for ourselves. She valued solitude and cherished the moments of quiet contemplation that allowed her to connect with her inner self.

In her poem "The Soul selects her own Society –," Dickinson expresses the joy and contentment that can be found in solitude:

The Soul selects her own Society –
Then – shuts the Door –
To her divine Majority –
Present no more –

Dickinson's words remind us of the power of self-reflection and the need to carve out time for ourselves amidst the chaos of daily life. She encourages us to find pleasure in the simple act of being with ourselves, free from the distractions and demands of the outside world.

In Conclusion

Emily Dickinson, the epicurean poet, found pleasure in the joy of contemplation, meditation, reading, and writing. Her poems serve as a testament to the power of self-reflection and the importance of finding space for ourselves in a world that often pulls us in countless directions.

Through her introspective verses, Dickinson invites us to explore the depths of our own thoughts and emotions, encouraging us to find solace and satisfaction in the act of contemplation. She reminds us of the limitless potential of the mind and the joy that can be found in the pursuit of knowledge and self-discovery.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us take a page from Dickinson's book and embrace the philosophy of Epicureanism. Let us find pleasure in the simple joys of contemplation, meditation, reading, and writing. And above all, let us find space in our lives to be with ourselves, to connect with our inner selves, and to find true fulfillment in the pursuit of our own happiness.