Question

What is the tone of Emily Dickinson's poem Some keep the Sabbath going to Church?

A. Sad
B. Angry
C. Happy
D. Hopeless

Answer 1

Emily Dickinson's poem 'Some keep the Sabbath going to Church' has a happy and contented tone, offering a light and whimsical perspective on finding spirituality in nature.

Step-by-step explanation:

Emily Dickinson's poem Some keep the Sabbath going to Church carries a tone that is far from sad, angry, or hopeless. Rather, it reflects a contented and happy perspective on the subject of Sabbath observance. Instead of going to church, Dickinson finds her spirituality in nature and the serenity of her own home.

The tone of the poem is light and whimsical, depicting her alternative way of observing the Sabbath with a gentle, almost playful defiance of convention. This kind of approachable and reflective tone is a hallmark of Dickinson's work, preventing her poetry from becoming too solemn, even when dealing with themes such as death and isolation. The use of imaginative language, slant rhymes, and the personification of nature brings a certain lightness and intimacy to her pieces, making them resonate with readers on a deeper emotional level without veering into the territory of melancholy.

Answer 2

The tone of Emily Dickinson's poem 'Some keep the Sabbath going to Church' is happy, displaying contentment with finding spirituality in nature, which is reflective of Dickinson's often playful and curious approach to themes like death and isolation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The tone of Emily Dickinson's poem Some keep the Sabbath going to Church could be interpreted as C. happy. Dickinson often infuses her poetry with themes of death and isolation, but her unique use of language and playful rhythm often prevent her poems from becoming overly solemn. In this particular poem, the speaker describes finding spiritual fulfillment in nature rather than a traditional church setting, which conveys a sense of contentment and peace rather than sadness or anger.

The poem's light-hearted and gentle approach to the subject matter suggests that Dickinson's attitude towards the Sabbath is joyful and personal, reflecting a celebratory communion with nature as an alternative to formal religious observance.

To answer the second part about what elements prevent Dickinson's poems from becoming too solemn, it's important to note that her inventive diction, unusual punctuation, and varied meter add a playful quality to her work. Additionally, her often unconventional perspectives on themes like death can introduce a sense of irony or curiosity rather than despair.