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Mystic Elements in “Because I Could Not Stop for Death.”

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Because I Could Not Stop for Death is a notable literary work by Emily Dickinson. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of Because I Could Not Stop for Death.

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Comment on the mystic elements through various symbols in “Because I Could Not Stop for Death.”

In Emily Dickinson’s (1830-1886) “Because I Could Not Stop for Death” (1863), mystic elements come to life through symbols. These symbols add layers of mystery and contemplation on life and death. Here are different symbols that skillfully capture the mystic elements in the poem.

The Carriage/The Journey: The journey in Death’s carriage is a central symbol. The journey represents a passage from life to the unknown, guided by Death. Here, Death is personified as the speaker’s companion.

Because I could not stop for Death –

He kindly stopped for me –

This journey in Death’s carriage suggests a gentle, almost comforting view of dying. It suggests that death is a natural step into an unknown realm.

School, Fields, Setting Sun: The speaker encounters the school, fields, and setting sun on the way, which are symbols. The school, fields, and setting sun represent stages of life. The school, where children play, symbolizes childhood. Passing the fields of “Gazing Grain” signifies maturity and adulthood. It captures the period of growth and purpose. Finally, the setting sun reflects the end of life. The setting sun symbolizes mortality’s arrival.

The House: On their journey, they pause before a house. The house is another symbol. It appears to be the speaker’s grave. The house becomes a resting place as the journey does not end there. It hints the journey will continue in the afterlife, toward “Eternity.”

Thus, Dickinson’s symbols—each carefully chosen—skillfully capture the mystic elements in the poem. The symbols suggest a mysterious journey beyond death.