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We Never Know How High We Are

by Emily Dickinson p. 248

We Never KnowHow High We Areby Emily Dickinson p. 248

by Ms. Tubbs

Theme

Fear of success holds people back.

Imagery

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"Our statures touch the sky" (4)

This expresses the accomplishments that are possible.

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"Cubits warp" (7)

People don't try to measure up to their potential and instead change how they measure themselves.

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"The Heroism we recite" (5)

People value heroism although they may fear becoming heroes themselves.

Alliteration

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"never know how high"

This reminds the readers that their potential is immeasurable.

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"Statures" and "skies" (4)

All people possess limitless potential.

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"For fear" (8)

The only thing holding people back is fear.

Rhyme

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"rise" (2) and "skies" (4)

This rhyme reminds the readers of the height required to accomplish a goal. People can rise to great heights if they work at it.

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"normal thing" (6) and "king" (8)

The title of king is not a normal thing for most individuals, but Dickinson shows readers that everyone can be extraordinary.

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Dickinson only used two rhymes in the whole poem.

This added extra emphasis to them.

Why I Liked This Poem

I think it's an important message for people to know. If people could ignore the pressure and take the challenges set before them, they could achieve amazing things. The sky could really be the limit.