How Does the Choice of Words in the Poem “I Taste a Liquor Never Brewed” Help to Illustrate the Idea of ‘Self’ of the Poet?
Emily Dickinson’s poem “I Taste a Liquor Never Brewed” is a vivid and imaginative celebration of nature, spirituality, and personal freedom. Through her creative and unique word choices, Dickinson illustrates a strong sense of the self — a self that is deeply connected to the natural world, emotionally free, and joyfully intoxicated by life’s simple wonders. In this poem, Dickinson does not just describe a scene but uses rich language to express her inner feelings and identity, painting a clear picture of her poetic self.
1. Imaginative Language and Joyful Self-Expression
The poem opens with the line, “I taste a liquor never brewed,” which instantly sets a metaphorical tone. Dickinson is not speaking of real alcohol but of a deep emotional and spiritual experience. The word “liquor” symbolizes the intoxicating beauty and power of nature. By saying it’s “never brewed,” she suggests that this feeling is pure and natural, not man-made. This shows that her sense of self is nourished not by society’s norms but by her own internal joy and imagination.
2. Nature as a Reflection of the Self
Throughout the poem, Dickinson uses images of nature to illustrate the depth of her emotional experience. She speaks of “Pearls,” “inns of molten Blue,” and “drunken bees,” using these symbols to show her connection with the natural world. Her word choice suggests that she is not separate from nature, but a part of it. Her self is built on a deep emotional and spiritual bond with the world around her.
3. Unconventional Use of Language
Dickinson’s creative use of language challenges conventional poetic norms, reflecting her independence and individualism. Words like “drunken bee” and “butterflies renounce their drams” give the poem a whimsical tone. These unusual expressions show that Dickinson’s self is not confined by society’s rules. Instead, her poetic voice is playful, free, and fearless. She embraces the unexpected and finds beauty in being different.
4. Spiritual and Transcendent Self
In the final stanza, Dickinson writes:
“Till Seraphs swing their snowy Hats —
And Saints — to windows run —
To see the little Tippler
Leaning against the — Sun!”
Here, her choice of words elevates her experience to a heavenly level. “Seraphs” and “Saints” refer to divine beings, and the image of a “Tippler” leaning against the Sun is both humorous and awe-inspiring. Dickinson presents her poetic self as someone so spiritually lifted by nature that even angels pause to watch. This suggests a self that is both unique and exalted—one that exists joyfully between the earthly and the divine.
5. Rebellion and Celebration of Identity
By comparing her joy to drunkenness, Dickinson subtly rebels against the strict moral codes of her time, particularly the Puritan background of New England. The choice of words like “inebriate,” “drunken,” and “liquor” would have been considered inappropriate by the social standards of the 19th century. Yet, she uses them with pride and humor, claiming her right to feel, to experience, and to express. Her self is not one that conforms, but one that celebrates difference.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Emily Dickinson’s poem “I Taste a Liquor Never Brewed” uses joyful, imaginative, and unconventional language to reflect a poetic self that is free, spiritual, and deeply connected to nature. Her choice of words creates a vivid picture of emotional intoxication, not through alcohol, but through the beauty of the world and the power of her own unique voice. Through this poem, Dickinson invites readers to embrace their own sense of self, one that finds joy in the world and freedom in expression.