A narrow Fellow in the Grass: Plot

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“A narrow Fellow in the Grass: Plot”

First person narrator tells of their encounters with a snake in grass, presenting the snake as a cunning adversary.
The speaker describes their initial childlike excitement and curiosity which turns into shock and horror.
The speaker’s change in tone represents their transition from innocence to knowledge.

“A narrow Fellow in the Grass: Structure & Language Techniques”

Dickinson uses a regular rhythmic structure to mimic the movement of the snake and to heighten tension.
Use of slant rhyme in Dickinson’s poems illustrates the uncertainty and complex nature of the subject matter.
Dickinson uses dashes to indicate long pauses which create mystery and suspense.

“A narrow Fellow in the Grass: Themes & Linking Poems”

Themes of nature and fear: A Bird, came down the Walk and A narrow Fellow in the Grass both use nature as metaphor to represent themes of fear and disturbance.
Theme of growing up: Transition from innocence to experience is portrayed in both A narrow Fellow in the Grass and I heard a Fly buzz- when I died.

“A narrow Fellow in the Grass: Key Quotes”

“His notice sudden is—”: Emphasizes the unpredictability and shock value of the snake’s appearance.
“And zero at the bone—”: The final line of the poem, suggesting a primal, bone-deep fear caused by the encounter with the snake.

“A narrow Fellow in the Grass: Poet & Context”

Dickinson, though born and raised in Amherst, Massachusetts, was well-educated and had access to various books.
Dickinson is known for her preoccupation with themes of nature and death.
She often incorporates experiences from her own life, particularly her love for nature, into her poetry.

By focusing on these key points, you will gain a deeper understanding of Emily Dickinson’s life, themes and style, as well as greater insight into her poem, “A narrow Fellow in the Grass”. Keep these points in mind while studying the poem and don’t hesitate to delve deeper into individual points where necessary.