[Poem] AMPLE MAKE THIS BED - A profound meditation on mortality, simplicity, and the afterlife through the metaphor of making a bed.

Introduction

"Ample make this Bed" is a short but profound poem by Emily Dickinson, one of the most celebrated American poets. Known for her unique style and exploration of themes such as life, death, immortality, and nature, Dickinson often employed concise language to convey deep emotions and philosophical musings. This particular poem reflects on the idea of preparing for death and final rest with reverence and care.

Poem Breakdown

The poem consists of four stanzas, each containing two lines, known as couplets. Here's an in-depth analysis:

Stanza 1: Preparation for Eternity

Ample make this bed. Make this bed with awe;

In these opening lines, Dickinson uses the imperative mood ("make") to stress the importance of preparing the bed—symbolic of a grave or final resting place—with great care and respect. The word "ample" suggests that the bed should be spacious and sufficient, perhaps indicating comfort or readiness for eternity. The term "awe" conveys a sense of solemnity and reverence, highlighting the gravity of the act. It implies that making this bed is not just a physical task but a spiritual preparation for what lies beyond life.

Stanza 2: Anticipation of Judgment

In it wait till judgment break Excellent and fair.

This stanza introduces the concept of waiting for judgment day, a common theme in Christian theology where souls are judged upon their deeds during life. The phrase "till judgment break" signifies the anticipation of a significant event—the end times or afterlife. "Excellent and fair" suggests that the soul should be prepared to face judgment with purity and righteousness, hoping for a favorable outcome. The tone here is both expectant and hopeful, emphasizing the importance of being morally upright.

Stanza 3: Precision in Details

Be its mattress straight, Be its pillow round;

Dickinson shifts focus to the meticulous details of preparing the bed. The straightness of the mattress and the roundness of the pillow symbolize orderliness and perfection. These precise instructions can be interpreted metaphorically, suggesting that one’s life and actions should be aligned and balanced, free from disorder or chaos. Just as a well-made bed provides comfort and stability, a well-lived life ensures peace and readiness for the afterlife.

Stanza 4: Undisturbed Rest

Let no sunrise' yellow noise Interrupt this ground.

The final stanza emphasizes the sanctity and permanence of the resting place. The imagery of "sunrise' yellow noise" represents the distractions and disturbances of daily life. By stating that nothing should interrupt "this ground," Dickinson underscores the idea that once a person has passed away, they should remain undisturbed in their eternal sleep. The ground, symbolic of the grave, becomes a sacred space where peace prevails, untouched by worldly concerns.

Themes and Symbolism

• Death and Afterlife: Central to the poem is the theme of death and the preparation for the afterlife. Dickinson views death not as an end but as a transition to another state of existence.
• Reverence and Respect: The repeated emphasis on making the bed with "awe" and ensuring precision reflects the respect and dignity one should accord to the deceased.
• Judgment and Morality: The anticipation of judgment day ties into the moral implications of how one lives their life, suggesting that ethical living is crucial for a peaceful afterlife.
• Nature Imagery: The use of natural elements like "sunrise" and "yellow noise" connects the poem to Dickinson’s broader engagement with nature as a source of inspiration and symbolism.

Conclusion

"Ample make this Bed" encapsulates Emily Dickinson's characteristic blend of simplicity and depth. Through the seemingly mundane act of bed-making, she delves into existential reflections on death, morality, and the afterlife. The poem invites readers to consider their own mortality and the legacy they leave behind, urging them to live lives that are orderly, respectful, and morally sound. Dickinson's masterful use of language and imagery transforms a simple directive into a profound meditation on the human condition.