"Emily Dickinson’s original approach to poetry results in startling and thought-provoking moments in her work." Give your response to the poetry of Emily Dickinson in the light of this statement - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2011

Emily Dickinson's poetry is renowned for its unique approach, which often yields startling and thought-provoking experiences for the reader. One of the distinctive aspects of her work is her use of unconventional punctuation and capitalization. For instance, in her poem "Because I could not stop for Death," Dickinson personifies Death, presenting it as a gentle companion. This personification creates a sense of calm and inevitability, provoking thoughts about mortality and the passage of time.

Moreover, her use of slant rhyme and fragmented imagery vividly depicts complex emotional states. In "I heard a Fly buzz - when I died," Dickinson's depiction of the mundane detail of a fly buzzing juxtaposes the profound moment of death, leading to a jarring yet thought-provoking realization about the nature of existence and the intersection of the ordinary with the profound.

Additionally, Dickinson's thematic focus on the paradoxes of life, including joy and despair, enhances her original approach. In "Hope is the thing with feathers," she presents hope as a bird that perches in the soul, an image that is both uplifting and thought-provoking, prompting readers to consider the resilience of hope even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, Emily Dickinson's unique style, with its shocking imagery and deep emotional resonance, effectively results in moments that are both startling and thought-provoking, inviting readers to engage deeply with her exploration of universal themes.