Meaning:
The quote "To make a prairie it takes a clover and one bee, One clover, and a bee, And revery. The revery alone will do, If bees are few" is a short, simple yet profound verse penned by the renowned American poet Emily Dickinson. Despite its brevity, this poem encapsulates the essence of the natural world and the interconnectedness of its elements. Through this verse, Dickinson celebrates the beauty and significance of the smallest components of nature in the creation of a larger, more complex ecosystem.
In the poem, Dickinson uses the imagery of a prairie, a vast open grassland, to symbolize the natural world. By mentioning a clover and a bee, she highlights the importance of seemingly insignificant elements in the formation and sustenance of the prairie. The clover represents the flora, while the bee represents the fauna. These two elements, along with "revery," which can be interpreted as a state of dreamy meditation or contemplation, are portrayed as essential components in the creation of the prairie.
The poet's choice of words is deliberate and evocative, as she suggests that it only takes one of each, a single clover and a lone bee, to initiate the process of creating a prairie. This underscores the idea that even the smallest beings have the power to contribute to the formation and preservation of the natural world. Furthermore, the inclusion of "revery" implies that there is a sense of wonder, appreciation, and imagination involved in this process, emphasizing the emotional and spiritual connection to nature.
The closing lines of the poem, "The revery alone will do, If bees are few," suggest that in the absence of a multitude of bees, the power of contemplation and appreciation alone can still sustain the prairie. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges or scarcity. Dickinson's words convey a sense of hope and perseverance, highlighting the ability of nature to endure and thrive even under adverse conditions.
Emily Dickinson's poetry often explores themes of nature, spirituality, and the human experience. In this particular verse, she captures the harmony and balance inherent in the natural world, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Her profound observation of the significance of the smallest elements in the grand scheme of nature reflects a deep understanding of ecological principles and the delicate balance that sustains life on Earth.
This quote is a testament to Dickinson's ability to distill complex ideas into succinct and impactful verses. It serves as a reminder of the beauty and resilience of the natural world and the profound impact of even the smallest creatures within it. Through her poetry, Dickinson invites readers to contemplate the interconnectedness of life and to appreciate the often-overlooked wonders of the natural world.
In conclusion, Emily Dickinson's quote "To make a prairie it takes a clover and one bee, One clover, and a bee, And revery. The revery alone will do, If bees are few" encapsulates the poetic beauty and profound insight for which she is celebrated. The verse celebrates the interconnectedness of nature and the resilience of even the smallest components in sustaining the natural world. Dickinson's words continue to resonate with readers, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of the world around us.