Read and analyze Emily Dickinson's poem titled "Hope is a Thing with Feathers."

Question

Hope is the thing with feathers

That perches in the soul,

And sings the tune without the words,

And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gale is heard;

And sore must be the storm

That could abash the little bird

That kept so many warm

I've heard it in the chillest land,

And on the strangest sea;

Yet, never, in extremity,

It asked a crumb of me.

In 4 or more complete sentences, explain how the poet uses metaphor in this poem. What is the comparison? Give examples and evidence from the poem to prove your point.
(4 points)

Answer 1

In this poem, Emily Dickinson uses the metaphor of hope being compared to a bird with feathers. The comparison is evident in lines such as "Hope is the thing with feathers" and "That perches in the soul." Just as a bird perches on a branch, hope rests within the soul of an individual. The poet also portrays hope as a bird that never stops singing, even in the face of adversity, symbolizing its continuous presence and ability to uplift spirits. Additionally, the poet describes hope as being sweetest in the gale, emphasizing its comforting and soothing nature during difficult times. Overall, Dickinson uses the metaphor of a bird with feathers to convey the idea that hope is ever-present, resilient, and brings warmth and comfort to those who embrace it.

Answer 2

Smaller

Answer 3

In this poem, Emily Dickinson uses the metaphor of hope as a bird with feathers. The comparison is illustrated in lines such as "That perches in the soul" and "That kept so many warm." By likening hope to a bird, the poet conveys the idea that hope is a delicate yet resilient presence in one's life. Dickinson also describes hope as a bird that sings without words, highlighting the intangible and uplifting nature of hope. Through this metaphor, the poet captures the essence of hope as a source of comfort and resilience that never falters, even in the face of adversity.