Exploring Death in Emily Bronte's Poems

Poetry has long been a medium through which artists have grappled with the enigmatic concept of death. In the case of Emily Bronte, the renowned English poet and novelist, her poems delve deep into the realms of mortality, offering thought-provoking insights and melancholic reflections on the subject. With a unique blend of haunting imagery and raw emotions, Bronte's poems about death continue to captivate readers even today.

"Remembrance"

One of Bronte's most poignant poems about death is "Remembrance." In this elegy, the poet reflects on the pain of losing a loved one and the enduring grief that follows. Bronte writes:

"Cold in the earth—and the deep snow piled above thee,
Far, far, removed, cold in the dreary grave!
Have I forgot, my only Love, to love thee,
Severed at last by Time's all-severing wave?"

These opening lines immediately establish a somber tone, with the image of the cold earth and deep snow emphasizing the finality of death. Bronte's use of the word "severed" evokes a sense of separation that intensifies the emotional impact of the poem.

"The Night-Wind"

In "The Night-Wind," Bronte explores the idea of death as a peaceful release from the struggles of life. This poem presents death as a comforting force, freeing the soul from earthly burdens. Bronte writes:

"In winter's tedious nights sit by the fire
With good old folios of unwieldy size,
Printed by Caxton, or the elder sire,
The imperfect copies of the Lord knows who,
And, passing rich on forty pounds a year,
Marry a school-mate's sister, and nearly die
Of envy, when he hears his poet praised."

Here, Bronte describes the monotony and discontent of life, contrasting it with the tranquility and freedom offered by death. The imagery of sitting by the fire with old books suggests a longing for solace and escape, ultimately leading to a desire for death's embrace.

"No Coward Soul Is Mine"

In "No Coward Soul Is Mine," Bronte confronts the fear and uncertainty surrounding death. The poem serves as a declaration of the poet's unwavering belief in the existence of an eternal soul that transcends mortal limitations. Bronte writes:

"I am not lone while thou canst speak with such a tone!
While I can listen to thy voice, beloved,
And hear thy living words—no darkness can eclipse
The glory of thy love, for ever shone
Upon me, from my boyhood—thou didst wrap
The mist of sense around me—thy siren voice
Hushed all my soul within me, and my heart
Floated in trance, as flowers who die and bloom
By turns beneath the moon, and heaven, and hell."

These powerful lines showcase Bronte's unwavering faith in the enduring power of love and the belief in an afterlife. Her use of the words "glory," "soul," and "heaven" emphasizes the spiritual nature of death and the eternal connection between souls.

Emily Bronte's poems about death offer readers a profound exploration of mortality, grief, and the afterlife. Through her evocative imagery and emotional depth, Bronte's words continue to resonate with readers, inviting contemplation and introspection. Whether reflecting on loss, seeking solace in death, or affirming the eternal nature of the soul, Bronte's poems are a testament to her mastery of capturing the complexities of the human experience.