Emily Dickinson: He Knew No More Poor

Posted by admin on Monday, September 3, 2018

Emily Dickinson Money Quote saying reading inspiring words voraciously can enrich the spirit and empty our soul of doubt. Emily Dickinson said:
 

 

“He ate and drank the precious Words, his Spirit grew robust; He knew no more that he was poor, nor that his frame was Dust” — Emily Dickinson

 

 

This quote by Emily Dickinson seems to be referring to the power of words and literature to nourish the spirit and lift one’s thoughts above physical concerns. The quote says that after “eating and drinking the precious Words”, the subject’s “Spirit grew robust” – suggesting the words strengthened and enriched his inner being.

It says he “knew no more that he was poor” nor aware of his physical “frame” being “Dust” – indicating how the words allowed him to transcend his physical circumstances of poverty, and even his mortal physical body, through the nourishment provided to his spirit.

So the best interpretation is that Dickinson is highlighting how absorbing rich literature and words can elevate one’s thoughts and inner being above worldly troubles or physical limitations.

Birthday December 10, 1830 – Death: May 15, 1886