“We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson: Analysis

Introduction: “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

“We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson first appeared in the Springfield Republican in 1862, although it wasn’t included in any of her collections published during her lifetime. The poem explores the human capacity to adapt to difficult circumstances and changing conditions. With her characteristic use of dashes and concise language, Dickinson examines the gradual process of adjusting to metaphorical darkness, suggesting that even in the bleakest of times, we develop a resilience that allows us to navigate uncertainty. This poem resonates for its exploration of universal human experiences and its subtle notes of optimism within the acknowledgment of hardship, displaying the timeless qualities of Dickinson’s work.

Text: “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

1. We grow accustomed to the Dark—
2. When Light is put away—
3. As when the Neighbor holds the Lamp
4. To witness her Goodbye—

1. A Moment—We uncertain step
2. For newness of the night—
3. Then—fit our Vision to the Dark—
4. And meet the Road—erect—

1. And so of larger—Darknesses—
2. Those Evenings of the Brain—
3. When not a Moon disclose a sign—
4. Or Star—come out—within—

1. The Bravest—grope a little—
2. And sometimes hit a Tree
3. Directly in the Forehead—
4. But as they learn to see—

1. Either the Darkness alters—
2. Or something in the sight
3. Adjusts itself to Midnight—
4. And Life steps almost straight.

Annotations of “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

Line	Difficult Words or Phrases	Annotations
1	accustomed	familiar with; used to
2	put away	turned off
3	witness	observe
5	uncertain step	tentative movement
6	newness of the night	unfamiliarity with darkness
7	fit our Vision to the Dark	adjust our sight to the darkness
8	erect	upright
9	larger Darknesses	metaphorical reference to greater challenges or struggles
11	disclose	reveal
13	grope a little	feel around uncertainly
15	Directly in the Forehead	in the face
17	Darkness alters	changes in the darkness
18	something in the sight	visual perception
19	Adjusts itself to Midnight	adapts to the darkness of night

Literary Devices in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

Literary Device	Verse Reference	Identification, Meanings, and Explanations
Alliteration	Line 15: “Directly in the Forehead”	The repetition of the “D” sound in the words “Directly” and “Forehead” creates a harsh and abrupt sound, emphasizing the pain and suddenness of hitting a tree in the darkness.
Assonance	Line 1: “We grow accustomed to the Dark”	The repetition of the “ow” sound in “grow” and “accustomed” creates a sense of familiarity and comfort, emphasizing the idea that darkness can become something we are accustomed to.
Consonance	Line 6: “For newness of the night”	The repetition of the “n” sound in “newness” and “night” creates a soft and flowing sound, evoking a sense of the calm and peacefulness of the night.
Enjambment	Lines 5-6: “A Moment—We uncertain step / For newness of the night—”	The sentence continues from line 5 to line 6 without any punctuation, creating a sense of movement and uncertainty as the speaker takes a step into the darkness.
Hyperbole	Line 13: “The Bravest—grope a little—”	The use of “a little” exaggerates the difficulty of navigating in the dark, implying that even the bravest individuals struggle in unfamiliar or completely dark environments.
Imagery	Line 10: “Those Evenings of the Brain—”	The use of the word “evenings” creates a visual image of a dark and shadowy space within the mind.
Irony	Line 2: “When Light is put away—”	The use of “put away” to describe the act of turning off a light is ironic, as it implies a casual and effortless action when in reality, it can create a sense of unease and uncertainty.
Metaphor	Line 3: “As when the Neighbor holds the Lamp”	The darkness is compared to a physical object, with the neighbor’s lamp serving as a symbol of the light that provides guidance in the darkness.
Onomatopoeia	Line 14: “And sometimes hit a Tree”	The use of “hit” creates a sharp and abrupt sound, emphasizing the suddenness and impact of colliding with an object in the darkness.
Oxymoron	Line 9: “larger—Darknesses”	The use of the word “larger” contradicts the idea of darkness, which is typically associated with a lack of substance or mass.
Paradox	Line 17: “Either the Darkness alters—”	The idea that darkness can change or alter itself is contradictory, creating a paradoxical statement that emphasizes the unpredictability of the darkness.
Personification	Line 1: “We grow accustomed to the Dark—”	Darkness is personified as something that can be experienced and adjusted to, emphasizing the speaker’s relationship with the darkness.
Repetition	Line 1: “We grow accustomed to the Dark—”	The repetition of “We” at the beginning of the line creates a sense of community or shared experience, emphasizing the universality of the speaker’s experience.
Rhyme	Line 4: “To witness her Goodbye—”	The words “by” and “goodbye” rhyme, creating a musical and memorable sound that emphasizes the finality and sadness of the neighbor’s departure.
Simile	Line 3: “As when the Neighbor holds the Lamp”	The darkness is compared to a situation where a neighbor holds a
Symbolism	4	“To witness her Goodbye—” – the neighbor’s goodbye is symbolic of a farewell to light and the arrival of darkness.
Synecdoche	19-20	“And Life steps almost straight” – the use of “Life” represents the person’s journey or path through the darkness.

Sound and Poetic Devices in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

Literary Device	Examples/Reference	Meanings and Functions
Alliteration	“We uncertain step” (line 5)	The repetition of the “s” sound in “uncertain step” emphasizes the hesitation and uncertainty of stepping into the darkness.
Assonance	“meet the Road—erect” (line 8)	The repeated “ee” sound in “meet” and “erect” creates a sense of firmness and resolve in the face of the darkness.
Consonance	“Witness her Goodbye” (line 4)	The repeated “s” and “d” sounds in “witness,” “her,” and “goodbye” create a soft, melancholic sound that reflects the sadness of saying farewell.
End Rhyme	“Brain” and “within” (lines 10-12)	The end rhyme of “brain” and “within” creates a sense of closure and completeness to the thought.
Rhyme Scheme	ABCBDEFE (stanzas 1-2), GGHHII (stanzas 3-4)	The consistent rhyme scheme creates a sense of pattern and structure, while the different rhyme sounds in each stanza give them distinct moods.
Diction	“We grow accustomed” (line 1)	The choice of “grow accustomed” instead of “become accustomed” creates a sense of gradual adaptation and familiarity over time.
Verse Type	Blank Verse	The poem is written in blank verse, which is unrhymed iambic pentameter. This creates a sense of natural rhythm and flow that echoes the poem’s themes of adaptation and adjustment.
Stanza Type	Quatrain (ABCB)	The poem is divided into four quatrains, which creates a sense of structure and order. Each stanza explores a different aspect of darkness and adaptation.
Poem Type	Lyric Poetry	The poem is a lyric poem, which is a type of poetry that expresses personal emotions or feelings. The poem’s intimate tone and focus on the speaker’s personal experience of darkness reflect this genre.
Tone	Melancholic	The poem has a melancholic tone that reflects the sadness and uncertainty of darkness. The speaker’s gradual adjustment to the darkness creates a sense of hope, but this is tempered by a sense of loss and sorrow.

Functions of Literary Devices in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

1. Enhancing the Imagery: In “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark,” Dickinson uses several literary devices to create vivid imagery that portrays the darkness and the fear of the unknown. For example, the alliteration in “uncertain step” emphasizes the disorientation of walking in the dark, while the metaphor of the “larger darknesses” in the brain conveys the deeper psychological impact of the fear of the unknown.
2. Creating a Musicality: The poem’s musicality is also heightened by literary devices such as rhyme and rhythm. The end rhyme in the first and third lines of each stanza creates a sense of symmetry and closure, while the internal rhyme in lines 1 and 2 of stanza 2 contributes to the poem’s musicality.
3. Establishing a Tone: The use of literary devices helps to establish the poem’s tone of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. The repetition of the phrase “We grow accustomed to the dark” throughout the poem creates a sense of acceptance and adaptation, while the use of enjambment in lines 7-8 of the second stanza creates a feeling of determination.
4. Conveying Meaning: Finally, literary devices in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” convey meaning by emphasizing the themes of the poem. For example, the metaphor of “fitting our vision to the dark” in line 7 of stanza 2 suggests that we must adjust to difficult circumstances and challenges in life. The alliteration in “directly in the forehead” in line 15 reinforces the idea that overcoming obstacles requires bravery and perseverance.

Themes in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

1. Human Adaptability: The poem’s opening lines suggest that humans have an innate ability to adapt to challenging circumstances. We can grow accustomed to the darkness when the light is put away, and adjust our vision to meet the road ahead. This theme reminds us that we are capable of overcoming challenges, even in the face of adversity. As the poem says, “We grow accustomed to the Dark—/ When Light is put away—” (lines 1-2).
2. The Struggle of Adjustment: The poem describes the initial uncertainty and disorientation that we may feel when we first encounter darkness. We may take uncertain steps and struggle to adjust to the newness of the night. This theme reminds us that change can be difficult, but with time and effort, we can adapt and thrive in new circumstances. As the poem says, “A Moment—We uncertain step/ For newness of the night—” (lines 5-6).
3. The Importance of Perseverance and Courage: The poem highlights the importance of resilience and the ability to persevere through difficult times. Even the bravest among us may stumble and hit a tree directly in the forehead, but with practice, we can learn to overcome the challenges that darkness presents. This theme reminds us that perseverance and courage are key to navigating challenging situations. As the poem says, “The Bravest—grope a little—/ And sometimes hit a Tree/ Directly in the Forehead—” (lines 13-15).
4. The Transformative Power of Darkness: The poem suggests that darkness can be transformative, bringing about new insights, perspectives, and a deeper appreciation for the light. As we adjust our vision to the darkness, something in our sight adjusts itself to midnight, and life steps almost straight. This theme reminds us that challenging circumstances can be opportunities for growth and transformation, and that by embracing darkness and the difficulties it presents, we can emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient. As the poem says, “Either the Darkness alters—/ Or something in the sight/ Adjusts itself to Midnight—/ And Life steps almost straight.” (lines 17-20).

Literary Theories and Interpretations of “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

1. Psychoanalytic interpretation: One interpretation of this poem from a psychoanalytic perspective is that it represents the human psyche’s ability to adjust and cope with difficult situations. Dickinson uses darkness as a metaphor for life’s uncertainties, fears, and anxieties, which we must learn to accept and live with. The speaker’s journey into darkness can be seen as a metaphor for the human psyche’s descent into the unconscious. The poem suggests that as we confront and learn to live with the darkness in our lives, we gain the strength and resilience to cope with life’s challenges. Example: “And so of larger – Darknesses – Those Evenings of the Brain – When not a Moon disclose a sign – Or Star – come out – within -“
2. Feminist interpretation: From a feminist perspective, this poem can be read as a commentary on the restrictions that society places on women’s lives. The “Darkness” in the poem can be interpreted as the societal norms and expectations that limit women’s opportunities and autonomy. The line “As when the Neighbor holds the Lamp/ To witness her Goodbye” can be seen as an allusion to the idea of the male gaze, where women are constantly being watched and judged by men. The poem suggests that women must learn to navigate and survive in a world that is often hostile and oppressive towards them. Example: “And meet the Road – erect -“
3. Reader-response interpretation: A reader-response interpretation of this poem emphasizes the reader’s role in creating meaning from the text. The poem’s use of imagery and metaphor invites the reader to imagine their own personal struggles and how they cope with darkness in their own lives. This interpretation emphasizes the poem’s universality, as it speaks to the human experience of learning to live with uncertainty and the unknown. Example: “And so of larger – Darknesses – Those Evenings of the Brain – When not a Moon disclose a sign – Or Star – come out – within -“
4. New Criticism interpretation: From a New Criticism perspective, the poem’s language, structure, and literary devices are central to its meaning. The poem’s use of repetition, such as “We grow accustomed to the Dark,” emphasizes the poem’s central theme of adapting to difficult situations. The poem’s imagery, such as “The Bravest – grope a little – And sometimes hit a Tree Directly in the Forehead,” suggests that the journey into darkness is not without risk, but that it is necessary for growth and resilience. Example: “A Moment – We uncertain step For newness of the night -“

Essay Topics, Questions and Thesis Statements about “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

1. The Themes of Death and Darkness in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark”

• How does Dickinson explore the theme of death in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark”?
• How does the darkness in the poem serve as a metaphor for death and the unknown?
• Thesis statement: Through her use of vivid imagery and metaphorical language, Dickinson explores the themes of death and darkness in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” to convey the human struggle with mortality and the unknown.

2. The Role of Perception and Adaptation in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark”

• How does the speaker’s perception of the darkness change throughout the poem?
• What is the significance of the speaker’s adaptation to the darkness?
• Thesis statement: Dickinson uses the metaphor of darkness in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” to explore the importance of perception and adaptation in overcoming adversity and navigating the unknown.

3. The Feminist Interpretation of “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark”

• How does Dickinson challenge traditional gender roles in the poem?
• In what ways does the female perspective play a role in the poem’s themes?
• Thesis statement: By exploring themes of strength, perseverance, and adaptation through a female perspective in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark,” Dickinson challenges traditional gender roles and presents a feminist interpretation of the human experience.

4. The Use of Metaphorical Language in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark”

• How does Dickinson use metaphorical language to convey the poem’s themes?
• What is the significance of the recurring metaphor of darkness in the poem?
• Thesis statement: Through her use of metaphorical language, particularly the recurring metaphor of darkness, Dickinson effectively conveys the themes of human struggle, adaptation, and perseverance in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark.”

Short Questions-Answers about “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

1. What is the significance of the imagery of darkness in the poem?

The imagery of darkness in “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” serves as a metaphor for the unknown and difficult experiences that we face in life. The darkness is representative of the obstacles we encounter and the uncertainties we face when we are faced with new situations or when we are forced to say goodbye to something or someone. Line 1 states, “We grow accustomed to the Dark,” implying that we become familiar with the struggles that come with darkness, and line 5 mentions how we “uncertain step” as we navigate through the unfamiliarity of the night.

2. What is the meaning behind the line “And sometimes hit a Tree/Directly in the Forehead”?

The line “And sometimes hit a Tree/Directly in the Forehead” (lines 14-15) highlights the painful experiences that come with navigating through the darkness. The “tree” can be interpreted as a symbol of the obstacles we encounter in life, which can cause us physical and emotional pain. The line also shows how we are sometimes blindsided by these obstacles, and the phrase “Directly in the Forehead” suggests that the pain is intense and immediate. However, the pain is only temporary, and as we learn to see in the darkness, we become better equipped to navigate through our struggles.

3. What is the significance of the use of the word “erect” in the poem?

The word “erect” in line 8 serves as a symbol of strength and resilience. The line states, “And meet the Road—erect—,” implying that we face our challenges with a sense of determination and confidence. Despite the obstacles we face, we stand tall and strong as we navigate through the darkness. The use of “erect” can also be interpreted as a metaphor for the importance of staying grounded and rooted during times of uncertainty.

4. How does the poem suggest that we adapt to darkness?

The poem suggests that we adapt to darkness through perseverance and the ability to adjust our vision. In line 7, the speaker mentions how we “fit our Vision to the Dark,” indicating that we learn to see in the darkness and adapt to our surroundings. The final stanza suggests that either the darkness changes or we change how we see it, indicating that as we become more accustomed to the darkness, we become better equipped to navigate through it. The poem also highlights the importance of bravery in the face of uncertainty and the ability to learn from our mistakes as we adapt to the darkness.

Literary Works Similar to “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

1. “Hope is the thing with feathers” by Emily Dickinson: Another short poem by Dickinson, exploring the enduring nature of hope even within difficult circumstances.
2. “Acquainted with the Night” by Robert Frost: This poem delves into themes of loneliness and alienation within a nocturnal setting, with a hint at finding solace in the shared experience of darkness.
3. “Do not go gentle into that good night” by Dylan Thomas: While the focus is on death, the poem’s core message is the fight for life and the refusal to accept darkness without resistance.
4. Poetry of the Harlem Renaissance: Many poets of this movement, like Langston Hughes and Claude McKay, explored themes of struggle, perseverance, and finding light and identity within the metaphorical darkness of oppression.
5. Existentialist literature: Works by writers such as Jean-Paul Sartre or Albert Camus often explore the darkness of the human condition, and the search for meaning and individual strength within an ultimately absurd world.

Suggested Readings: “We Grow Accustomed to the Dark” by Emily Dickinson

Books

• Sewall, Richard B. The Life of Emily Dickinson. Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1994.
• Wolff, Cynthia Griffin. Emily Dickinson. Alfred A. Knopf, 1986.
• Martin, Wendy. An American Triptych: Anne Bradstreet, Emily Dickinson, Adrienne Rich. University of North Carolina Press, 1984.

Articles

• Cameron, Sharon. “Lyric Time in Emily Dickinson’s Poems.” The Sewanee Review, vol. 87, no. 4, 1979, pp. 575–596. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/27541052.
• Gelpi, Barbara Charlesworth. “Emily Dickinson and the Deerslayer: The Dilemma of the Woman Poet in America.” Feminist Re-Visions, edited by Vivian Patraka and Louise A. Tilly. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 1983, pp. 77-95.
• Eberwein, Jane Donahue. “‘Esteem Her most for Consciousness’: Revaluing Dickinson’s Textual Revisions.” Dickinson Studies, no. 58, 1987, pp. 49–69. Project Muse, muse.jhu.edu/article/395732.

Websites

• The Emily Dickinson Museum: https://www.emilydickinsonmuseum.org/ (Offers biographies, analyses, and other resources)
• The Poetry Foundation: [invalid URL removed] (Provides the poem’s text and some critical commentary)
• Emily Dickinson Archive: https://www.edickinson.org/ (A comprehensive digital archive of Dickinson’s manuscripts and scholarship)