I meant to have but modest needs

Read 'I meant to have but modest needs' by 'Emily Dickinson' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

I meant to have but modest needs by Emily Dickinson

 I meant to have but modest needs --
Such as Content -- and Heaven --
Within my income -- these could lie
And Life and I -- keep even --

But since the last -- included both --
It would suffice my Prayer
But just for One -- to stipulate --
And Grace would grant the Pair --

And so -- upon this wise -- I prayed --
Great Spirit -- Give to me
A Heaven not so large as Yours,
But large enough -- for me --

A Smile suffused Jehovah's face --
The Cherubim -- withdrew --
Grave Saints stole out to look at me --
And showed their dimples -- too --

I left the Place, with all my might --
I threw my Prayer away --
The Quiet Ages picked it up --
And Judgment -- twinkled -- too --
Tat one so honest -- be extant --
It take the Tale for true --
That "Whatsoever Ye shall ask --
Itself be given You" --

But I, grown shrewder -- scan the Skies
With a suspicious Air --
As Children -- swindled for the first
All Swindlers -- be -- infer --

Form: Ballad Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace