"Success is counted sweetest" is a poignant poem by Emily Dickinson that explores the complex nature of success and its perceived value. Dickinson, known for her enigmatic and thought-provoking poetry, delves into the theme of success with her characteristic brevity and depth of emotion.
The poem begins with the famous line, "Success is counted sweetest / By those who ne'er succeed." This opening immediately sets the tone for the exploration of success from the perspective of those who have not experienced it firsthand. Dickinson suggests that those who have never achieved success are the ones who can truly appreciate its sweetness. The use of the word "ne'er" adds a touch of archaic language, emphasizing the timeless and universal nature of the poem's theme.
The second stanza introduces vivid imagery to convey the intensity of desire and the hunger for success. The metaphor of a defeated army, unable to taste the victory, amplifies the idea that those who yearn for success the most are the ones who have not attained it. Dickinson employs a sensory approach, invoking the image of parched lips and the idea that the "purple Host" represents the victorious side, highlighting the vivid contrast between success and failure.
The third stanza shifts the perspective, suggesting that success is like a nectar that is too intense for those who are close to it. The use of the word "comprehend" emphasizes the difficulty of understanding and appreciating success when it is within one's reach. Dickinson employs an intriguing paradox, suggesting that the "sorest need" to taste success comes from a position of failure. This concept challenges conventional notions of success and raises questions about its true essence.
In the final stanza, the poem concludes with the refrain, "As he defeated - dying - / On whose forbidden ear / The distant strains of triumph / Burst agonized and clear!" Here, Dickinson employs a poignant image of a dying soldier who can hear the sounds of victory but is unable to experience it. The choice of the word "forbidden" adds a layer of complexity, suggesting that success is elusive and unattainable for some.
"Success is counted sweetest" is a profound meditation on the subjective nature of success, challenging the conventional idea that those who achieve it understand its true value. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, Emily Dickinson invites readers to reflect on the nuanced emotions associated with success and the bittersweet quality of yearning for something that remains just out of reach.
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