Selected Poems of Emily Dickinson (Poetry Bookshelf)
The Poetry Bookshelf Series
on Goodreads (29,310)
What’s inside...
James Reeves's introduction provides personal insight into Emily Dickinson's remarkable poems, highly praised by Allen Tate. The poems are included in AQA B and WJEC A-level curricula for students aged 16 and older. Heinemann offers a pristine copy of the book. Emily Dickinson, born into a prominent New England family, became reclusive over time. Only seven of her poems were published during her lifetime, but after her death in 1886, her sister found 1,775 poems, which were first published in 1890 and gained significant literary attention. Dickinson's work, characterized by concise language, offers a deep view of nature and profound human truths.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-1
Length
113 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you feel after reading Emily Dickinson’s poems?
Which poem resonated with you the most, and why?
What images did these poems create in your mind?
How do you think Emily Dickinson felt when she wrote these poems?
Can you think of a moment in your life that relates to any of the themes in Dickinson’s poetry?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, give a brief introduction about Emily Dickinson and her unique style of writing to spark curiosity.
Encourage your child to visualize the imagery in the poems and describe what they see.
Discuss the emotions conveyed through the poems and relate them to personal experiences or feelings.
Ask your child to pick their favorite line from a poem and explain why it stands out to them.
Allow time for reflection after reading each poem to deepen understanding and connection to the text.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of nature
Explanation: Emily Dickinson's poetry often highlights the beauty and intricacies of the natural world, encouraging readers to observe and cherish the environment around them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more observant and appreciative of nature, fostering a lifelong respect and care for the environment.
Example Lesson: Expression of emotions
Explanation: Dickinson’s work vividly portrays a wide range of human emotions, helping readers understand and articulate their feelings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to identify and express their emotions more effectively, aiding in their emotional development and interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience and hope
Explanation: Despite themes of death and immortality, Dickinson's poems often carry a message of enduring hope and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can develop a stronger sense of hope and resilience, enabling them to face challenges with a positive outlook.
Example Lesson: The power of imagination
Explanation: Dickinson uses creative and imaginative language to convey her messages, demonstrating the power of creativity.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to use their imagination to solve problems, think creatively, and express themselves through art or writing.
Example Lesson: Importance of introspection
Explanation: Many poems invite readers to reflect on their own lives and inner thoughts.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of self-reflection, helping them grow more aware of their own thoughts and feelings, and making mindful decisions.