Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Tell all the truth but tell it slant" is a poem by Emily Dickinson, an American poet who lived from 1830 to 1886. The poem was first published posthumously in 1890.

The poem explores the idea of truth and the importance of approaching truth with care and sensitivity. The title of the poem, "Tell all the truth but tell it slant," suggests a sense of nuance and subtlety, emphasizing the idea that truth can be difficult to express directly.

The poem describes the experience of the human psyche in relation to truth. The speaker suggests that truth can be overwhelming or difficult to accept, and that a direct approach to truth-telling may not always be the best approach. Instead, the speaker suggests that truth should be approached with care and sensitivity, and that it may be more effective to convey truth indirectly or through metaphor.

Overall, the poem suggests a complex and nuanced approach to truth-telling. The poem emphasizes the importance of truth and the necessity of conveying truth to others, while also acknowledging the potential for misunderstanding or resistance to the truth. The poem also suggests a sense of reverence and respect for the human psyche, emphasizing the importance of approaching truth with care and sensitivity in order to avoid causing harm or distress.

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