Wild Nights Wild Nights

“‘Faith’ is a fine invention” by Emily Dickinson (1860)

Dickinson’s elusive relationship with religion continues in “‘Faith’ is a fine invention,” where Dickinson acknowledges that “spirituality” can come in handy, though it’s not as practical as tangible instruments like “Microscopes” (Line 3). In dialogue with “Wild nights - Wild nights!,” faith turns into “luxury” (Line 4)—something that not everyone can afford to possess. The poem connects to Sarah Arvio’s claim that Dickinson’s speaker addresses God in “Wild nights - Wild nights!” If the speaker had the “luxury” to fully believe in God, the two could go on an epic adventure together.

“What Soft—Cherubic Creatures” by Emily Dickinson (1862)

In this poem, Dickinson parodies women who present themselves as too fragile for the world. The dainty depiction contrasts with the forceful portrayal of the speaker and addressee in “Wild nights - Wild nights!,” where the two have the power to embark on a sea adventure. 

“I had been hungry, all the Years” by Emily Dickinson (1862)

The poem links to the themes of The Allure of Frenzied Feelings and Absence versus Presence. In “I had been hungry, all the Years,” the hungry speaker finally sits down to eat and the full feeling disappoints them.