Final answer:
Emily Dickinson's metaphor of the crows can be inferred as expressing skepticism towards fame, as the poet equates being 'somebody' with being as public and exposed as a frog. Her use of common metre in her poetry, similar to 19th-century songs, allows her depth of meaning and thematic exploration to resonate more deeply with readers. Dickinson's writings also challenge traditional 19th-century gender roles by addressing universal themes and reflecting a bold, inquisitive spirit.
Step-by-step explanation:
Emily Dickinson's use of the metaphor of crows in her poetry can be interpreted as her expression of skepticism towards fame. One of the lines from her poems that might be cited to support this inference is from "I'm Nobody! Who are you?", where she writes, "How dreary to be somebody! How public, like a frog." This line alludes to the idea that being 'somebody'—famous or in the public eye—is unappealing and exposes one to constant scrutiny, much like a frog that croaks for everyone to hear.
To understand the metaphor in the context of Dickinson's poetry, it's helpful to consider the rhythmic elements she borrowed from popular nineteenth-century songs. The familiar rhythm makes her poetry more accessible, allowing readers to focus on the depth of meaning in her metaphors and themes. By employing a common meter, Dickinson's innovative insights on topics like fame, immortality, and gender roles resonate with the reader and challenge preconceived notions.
In terms of gender roles, Dickinson's poems often subvert the 19th-century expectations of women. Her poetry moves beyond the domestic sphere that women were confined to and delves into universal themes, reflecting a bold spirit that questioned and sometimes defied the norm.