What prosy winds will do
I held a Jewel in my fingers
I held a Jewel in my fingers –
And went to sleep –
The day was warm, and winds were prosy –
I said “‘Twill keep” –
I woke – and chid my honest fingers,
The Gem was gone –
And now, an Amethyst remembrance
Is all I own –
– Emily Dickinson (c. 1861)
Oh, such austerity with such power “the winds were prosy” opens itself to wonderful interpretations. I think Emily is a Goddess! Are you familiar with US artist Leslie Dill – she uses Dickinson’s poetry for elements in her visual art expressions, and they are wonderful and delicate. Google her, James – I’d love to know what you think of her work. G
James, I looked up “prosy” and besides the meaning “of or pertaining to prose” the word means “prosaic, dull.” Also while we expect “chide” apparently “chid” is acceptable. The line “I woke – and chid my honest fingers,” is wonderful! As if her own fingers could be doing something dishonest, like stealing the gem without her knowing it.
She is indeed marvelous — right, suburbanlife?
Thanks for both of your comments, suburbanlife and maryt! I’m especially happy about the explanation of the different meanings of “prosy.”
Enjoy your blog, James. And like your poetry selections.