Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Bible is an antique volume" is a poem by Emily Dickinson, an American poet who lived from 1830 to 1886. The poem was first published posthumously in 1896.

The poem explores the idea of the Bible as an ancient text that has been passed down through the generations. The speaker suggests that the Bible is an "antique volume," emphasizing its age and historical significance.

The poem also explores the idea of the Bible as a source of guidance and wisdom. The speaker suggests that the Bible contains a "hundred golden centuries" of wisdom and knowledge, emphasizing its enduring value and relevance.

At the same time, the poem suggests a sense of distance or detachment from the Bible. The speaker describes the Bible as a "book outworn," suggesting that it may no longer be relevant or applicable to modern life.

Overall, the poem suggests a complex and nuanced relationship with the Bible, emphasizing its historical significance and enduring value, while also acknowledging the potential limitations of an ancient text in a modern world. The poem also suggests a sense of reverence and respect for the Bible, even as the speaker acknowledges the challenges of interpreting and applying its wisdom in a changing world.

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