Re-read I started Early - Took my Dog. Choose one other poem from the Time and Place anthology. Compare how a journey is presented in the two poems. In your answer, you should consider: - poets' use of language, form and structure - influence of the contexts in which the poems were written.

GCSE Edexcel English Literature Power and Conflict: Re-read I started Early

In both poems, journeys serve as metaphors for personal and emotional experiences, though they differ significantly in tone and approach.

Language: In Dickinson's poem, the use of informal and conversational language emphasizes a child-like innocence and spontaneity. Phrases like "presuming me to be a Mouse" create whimsical imagery, illustrating the speaker's playful encounter with nature. In contrast, Wordsworth's 'To Autumn' employs a more grandiose and lyrical tone, laden with rich descriptions, e.g., the lines depicting the ripening of fruits serve as a metaphor for the maturation and beauty of life.
Form: Dickinson employs shorter stanzas and irregular rhyme schemes, which enhance the poem's intimate feel and reflect the unpredictability of her journey. Wordsworth's structured stanzas and rhythmic patterns provide a sense of order, mirroring the seasonal cycles that define autumn. This dichotomy suggests a contrast between the spontaneous journey of the speaker in Dickinson's poem and the cyclical, predictable journey of life in Wordsworth's work.

Dickinson’s Context: Written in the 19th century, Dickinson's exploration of personal introspection reflects her reclusive lifestyle and her inner emotional landscapes. The juxtaposition of the natural world against the confines of societal expectations speaks to the theme of personal freedom versus restriction.
Wordsworth’s Context: In contrast, Wordsworth's poem encompasses the Romantic era’s appreciation for nature and the pastoral ideal. His work reflects a collective perspective on nature and the transitions of life, shaped by societal and agricultural changes of the time. The journey through autumn is portrayed as a celebration of nature's bounty and the inevitability of change, showcasing a communal experience rather than a solitary one.