Read the poem. I Dwell In Possibility

by Emily Dickinson

I dwell in Possibility –
A fairer House than Prose –
More numerous of Windows –
Superior – for Doors –

Of Chambers as the Cedars –
Impregnable of eye –
And for an everlasting Roof
The Gambrels of the Sky –

Of Visitors – the fairest –
For Occupation – This –
The spreading wide my narrow Hands
To gather Paradise –

Question 1
Part A

What is a key theme of "I Dwell in Possibility"?

Poetry is superior to other genres of literature.

Paradise is both painful and sweet.

Pain reveals the deepest truths about life.

Nature is a spiritual teacher.
Question 2
Part B

How does Emily Dickinson develop the theme indicated in Part A?

Dickinson longs for visitors but has only poetry for company.

Dickinson observes that walls and roofs should be difficult to attack.

She compares poetry and prose to two homes, preferring the one with more doors and windows.

She describes paradise as a house with strong windows and thick walls.