Emily Dickinson Poems about Sue: Exploring their Complex Relationship

Emily Dickinson was a prolific American poet known for her unique style and reclusive nature. Throughout her life, she formed numerous close relationships, but none as significant as her connection with her dear friend, Sue Gilbert Dickinson. Their relationship inspired many of Emily Dickinson's poems, which delve into themes of love, friendship, and longing. In this article, we will explore some of the most notable Emily Dickinson poems about Sue, examining the complexities of their bond and the emotions it evoked.

The Bonds of Friendship

Sue Gilbert Dickinson, Emily's sister-in-law, was also her close confidante, emotional support, and intellectual companion. Their friendship formed a deep bond, transcending societal norms and expectations of the time. Their correspondence and encounters provided Emily with emotional sustenance, as reflected in her poignant verses. Let us now delve into a few notable poems that highlight the essence of their relationship.

Poem 1: "Safe in their Alabaster Chambers"

"Safe in their Alabaster Chambers –
Untouched by Morning –
And untouched by Noon –
Lie the meek members of the Resurrection –
Rafter of Satin – and Roof of Stone!"

This poem reflects Emily's acknowledgment of the inevitability of death and her belief in the afterlife. It suggests that even after death, she and Sue will remain together, their spirits united forever. Emily Dickinson's tender expression of eternal companionship portrays their enduring friendship.

Poem 2: "The Heart asks Pleasure – first"

"The Heart asks Pleasure – first –
And then – Excuse from Pain –
And then – those little Anodynes
That deaden suffering –"
Sorrow "had said" —
>"No more –"
And I –
leapt up —
And adored —
The Breaker – the Creator —
The Stealer – the Saver —
As scarlets –
—H—and Jade –
Were all my plain —
As Surfaces of Lawns –
And Hills—
My Passionate peace—"

This poem offers insight into the complexities of Emily's relationship with Sue. The heart yearns for pleasure, while simultaneously seeking an escape from pain. It portrays Emily's conflicting emotions in her friendship with Sue, oscillating between deep affection and an almost tumultuous adoration. The mention of scarlets and jade indicates the intensity of her feelings.

Poem 3: "I'm 'wife' – I've finished that"

"I'm 'wife' – I've finished that –
That other state –
I'm Czar – I'm 'Woman' now –
It's safer so –
How odd the Girl's life looks
Behind this soft Eclipse –
I think that Earth feels so
To folks in Heaven – now –
This being comfort – then
That other kind – was pain –
But why compare?
I'm 'Wife'! Stop there!"

In this poem, Emily Dickinson reflects on societal expectations and how her relationship with Sue provided a sense of freedom. By embracing the role of a wife and casting aside societal norms, she found solace and contentment. The mention of Heaven indicates the joy she experienced in their friendship, contrasting her previous feelings of pain and discomfort.

Emily Dickinson poems about Sue provide a glimpse into the intricacies of their profound connection. Through expressive verses, Dickinson encapsulates the intensity of their friendship, the conflicts within, and the great comfort it brought her. These poems highlight the significance of their relationship, transcending societal expectations and offering solace in an authentic human connection. Reading these poems allows us to witness the deep emotional impact Sue had on Emily Dickinson's life.