How Did Emily Look Before She Died?

How Did Emily Look Before She Died?

Emily Dickinson was a prolific American poet who lived from 1830 to 1886. She led a secluded life in Amherst, Massachusetts, and her appearance was often described as plain or even unkempt. However, in the years leading up to her death, Dickinson’s appearance underwent a significant transformation.

Emily’s Early Appearance

As a young woman, Dickinson was described as having a “delicate” and “feminine” appearance. She had dark hair, brown eyes, and a fair complexion. However, her health was often poor, and she suffered from a variety of ailments, including headaches, nausea, and fatigue. As a result, her appearance often reflected her physical condition.

In her early thirties, Dickinson began to withdraw from society. She spent more and more time alone in her room, writing poetry and corresponding with friends. Her seclusion took a toll on her appearance. She stopped taking care of herself, and her clothes became increasingly disheveled.

Changes in Appearance

In the years leading up to her death, Dickinson’s appearance changed dramatically. She became increasingly gaunt and frail. Her hair turned white, and her skin became pale and wrinkled. Her eyes, once bright and expressive, became dull and lifeless.

One of the most striking changes in Dickinson’s appearance was her wardrobe. She began to wear only white clothing, and she would often wrap herself in a white shawl. Some scholars believe that Dickinson’s choice of white clothing was a reflection of her Puritan heritage. Others believe that she was simply trying to hide her deteriorating health.

Theories about Dickinson’s Appearance

There are several theories about why Dickinson’s appearance changed so dramatically in the years leading up to her death. Some scholars believe that her physical health played a major role. Others believe that her mental health was also a factor.

Dickinson suffered from chronic depression and anxiety. She also had a number of obsessive-compulsive behaviors, such as counting the steps she took and arranging her possessions in a particular order. These behaviors may have contributed to her neglect of her personal appearance.

Another theory is that Dickinson’s changes in appearance were a reflection of her changing spiritual beliefs. In her later years, Dickinson became increasingly interested in religion. She may have believed that her physical body was a hindrance to her spiritual growth.

Dickinson’s Legacy

Despite her unconventional appearance, Dickinson is considered one of the most important American poets of the 19th century. Her work is characterized by its originality, its intensity, and its exploration of the human condition. Dickinson’s poems continue to be read and studied by people all over the world.

Dickinson’s legacy is not only her poetry but also her image. She has become an iconic figure, representing the solitary artist who is willing to sacrifice everything for her art. Her appearance, both in life and in death, has become a symbol of her strength, her independence, and her dedication to her craft.

Questions and Answers

Q: Why did Dickinson’s appearance change so dramatically in the years leading up to her death?

A: There are several theories about why Dickinson’s appearance changed, including her physical health, mental health, and spiritual beliefs.

Q: What was Dickinson’s signature style of dress?

A: In the years leading up to her death, Dickinson wore only white clothing, often wrapped in a white shawl.

Q: What is Dickinson’s legacy?

A: Dickinson is considered one of the most important American poets of the 19th century. Her work is characterized by its originality, its intensity, and its exploration of the human condition. Her legacy includes not only her poetry but also her image as an iconic figure representing the solitary artist.

Q: What can we learn from Dickinson’s life and work?

A: Dickinson’s life and work can teach us the importance of following our own path, even when it is unconventional. It can also teach us the importance of accepting ourselves for who we are, even if we are different from others.

Q: How can we apply Dickinson’s lessons to our own lives?

A: We can apply Dickinson’s lessons to our own lives by embracing our own individuality, pursuing our passions, and accepting ourselves for who we are.