How did Emily Dickinson’s unusual poem about death become standard high school curriculum?
Emily Dickinson is one of those writers whose life is as famous as her writing. After Emily Dickinson died, her sister found nearly two thousand poems in her bureau, all ready for publication. In a surprising number of those poems, Emily Dickinson was writing from beyond the grave. “Because I Could Not Stop for Death,” Dickinson’s fantasy of getting picked up by the grim reaper, has become standard reading curriculum in English classes across America — but it’s still a very strange work of art. For our series on American Icons, WBUR’s Sean Cole — a poet himself — took a closer look at Dickinson’s legendary work.
At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.
Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!