Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

The poem "Art Thou the Thing I Wanted?" by Emily Dickinson explores themes of desire, transformation, and spiritual transcendence. It does so through the metaphor of hunger, both physical and metaphorical, and raises questions about the nature of fulfillment and self-sufficiency. Interestingly, the poem offers two slightly different versions of the same theme, almost as if the poet is debating with herself, perfecting her own thoughts through revision.

The repetition of the phrase "Art thou the thing I wanted?" serves as a confrontational opening in both stanzas, immediately engaging the reader in a query about the nature of desire and fulfillment. In the first instance, the poet dismisses the "thing" she once wanted, stating that her "Tooth has grown," indicating maturity or a transformation in taste or desire. The "minor Palate" that once would have been satisfied by this 'thing' has evolved, and the speaker now identifies herself with a more ascetic, even divine, perspective: "And dine without Like God."

This spiritual asceticism appears again in the second stanza with a slight variation, where the speaker "abjured" the "mystery of Food," this time "Subsisting now like God." While the first stanza implies that God is beyond the need for sustenance, the second stanza further emphasizes the idea by stating that the speaker is "subsisting," or surviving, like God, without the need for worldly desires. The choice of the word "subsisting" is noteworthy, suggesting not just survival but a kind of minimalism or simplicity that elevates her above earthly needs.

The progression from "minor Palate" to "Tooth has grown" symbolizes a maturation process. The waiting period, a metaphorical "fasting," allows the speaker to gain a different perspective on what is truly important or necessary. While waiting, the "mystery of Food" grows so compelling that she ultimately rejects it, likening herself to God who is beyond all earthly needs and desires. This transformation is not just physical but spiritual, as indicated by the reference to God.

In terms of form, the poem is short and succinct, typical of Dickinson's style, and uses her characteristic dashes to add emphasis and create pauses for thought. It's as if the poem itself is a meditation on the evolving nature of wants and needs.

Considering the time period when Emily Dickinson lived-a time of social, scientific, and religious questioning-the poem can be seen as a part of the broader discussions on materialism versus spiritualism. Her decision to "dine without Like God" can be interpreted as a commentary on the unnecessary complexities and desires introduced by modern life, suggesting a more spiritual and less materialistic approach to existence.

In conclusion, "Art Thou the Thing I Wanted?" offers a deep dive into the ever-changing nature of desire and fulfillment, both physical and spiritual. Through its intricate metaphors and religious allusions, it allows us to ponder on our own ever-changing wants and the possibility of a more enlightened state of being.

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