On Dickinson

Teacher and former U.S. Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith explores the art of poetry through twenty of her favorite Emily Dickinson poems.

In this small intimate volume, acclaimed poet and former U.S. Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith shares twenty of her favorite Emily Dickinson poems—chosen for their ability to provide pleasure, spiritual sustenance, and wisdom. More than just an introduction to Emily Dickinson, this gift edition offers a seasoned teacher and poet's personal insight into one of our greatest poets through her rich and personal commentaries. 

Moving beyond the myths of Dickinson’s reclusive life, Smith illuminates the stylistic, imaginative, and linguistic features of each of her selections, providing vital context that allows readers to appreciate Dickinson's startling innovations and aesthetic power—and challenging us to look anew at what each of these poems has to say about life.

For both devoted readers and those readers coming to Dickinson’s poetry perhaps for the first time, Smith’s commentaries offer themselves as a deeply inspired and inspiring guide.