Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Post-Mortem" 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 describes the experience of a family after the death of a loved one. The speaker describes the sense of activity and energy in the house, as family members and friends come together to grieve and remember the person who has died.

The poem also explores the idea of the passage of time and the process of grief. The speaker suggests that the family will eventually come to terms with their loss, and that the energy and activity in the house will eventually subside.

At the same time, the poem suggests a sense of reverence and respect for the process of grief and mourning. The speaker suggests that the experience of loss is a profound and important part of the human experience, and that it should be treated with care and sensitivity.

Overall, the poem suggests a complex and nuanced experience of grief and mourning. The poem emphasizes the importance of family and community in the process of grieving, while also acknowledging the deep sense of loss and sadness that accompanies the death of a loved one. The poem also suggests a sense of hope and resilience, emphasizing the ability of people to come together and support one another in the face of loss and adversity.

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