The Soul has Bandaged Moments: Structure & Language Techniques

The Soul has Bandaged Moments: Structure & Language Techniques

Structure & Language Techniques

• Dickinson’s use of Iambic Trimeter, a rhythmic pattern commonly found in nursery rhymes, contrasts with the intense subject matter.
• Frequent use of Dashes, creating abrupt pauses, mirrors the momentary relief and sudden terror experienced by the speaker.
• Dickinson’s Capitalisation of certain words grants them additional significance, prompting the reader to pay closer attention to their meanings.

Themes & Linking Poems

• Similar to “The Soul selects her own Society”, the theme of Self-Imposed Isolation is prevalent.
• Explores the dichotomy of Pain and Relief like “After great pain, a formal feeling comes”.
• Shares the depiction of struggling consciousness with “I heard a Fly buzz- when I died”.

Key Quotes

• “‘Tis little I — could care for Pearls —” underscores the speaker’s Distain for Material Possessions.
• “The Soul has moments of escape —” embodies the theme of Temporary Relief.
• “An Horror so supreme —” illustrates the theme of Overwhelming Fear.

Poet & Context

• Dickinson’s own life of solitude and seclusion could be reflected in the speaker’s isolation.
• The harsh description of fear parallels society’s attitude towards Mental Illness in Dickinson’s time.
• The poem’s exploration of suffering and solace relates to Transcendentalist Philosophy; this was prevalent during Dickinson’s lifetime and influenced her work.