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In this poem, Emily Dickinson illustrates the difference between being "Nobody" and "Somebody." In a paragraph of four to six sentences, explain which the poet prefers and use specific examples from the poem to support your interpretation.

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In her poem, "I'm Nobody! Who are you?" Emily Dickinson seems to prefer being "Nobody" rather than "Somebody." She expresses her preference for anonymity by describing the disadvantages of being in the public eye, such as having to wear a mask or being subjected to scrutiny and criticism. In contrast, being "Nobody" allows one to be true to oneself and to live without pretense or fear of judgment. Dickinson portrays being "Nobody" as a liberating experience, where one can enjoy the small pleasures of life without being weighed down by the expectations of others. For example, in the lines "How dreary to be somebody! How public like a frog / To tell one's name the livelong day / To an admiring bog!" Dickinson suggests that being "Somebody" requires constant attention and validation, which can be exhausting and soul-crushing. Thus, Dickinson's poem seems to celebrate the joys of anonymity and the freedom to be oneself without the burden of public expectations.

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