Critical Analysis of 'A Bird came down the Walk' In 'A Bird came down the Walk-', nature is presented in various ways. Dickinson experiences the benevolence within nature. This contrasts with the cruel and unmerciful aspects of nature that are also evident in the poem. The narrator feels a sense of belonging with nature as she observes in awe. However, at times, she feels alienated due to the differences between animals and humans. Nature is initially presented as a brutal force. Dickinson creates vivid imagery of an 'Angleworm' being bitten 'in halves' by the bird. The bird's basic need for sustenance takes priority over its other instincts, causing it to behave mercilessly towards its prey. Similarly, in 'A Narrow Fellow in the …show more content…

It also suggests that she recognises the Angleworm and the snake in 'A Narrow…' as 'fellow' creatures. In 'A Narrow…' animals are personified as 'nature's other people'. This suggests that Dickinson feels a part of nature, as it consists of humans (her people) and animals and plants, the 'other' people. Although they are different in behaviour and characteristics, they are the components of the natural world. This creates a sense of belonging for the protagonist. The bird 'came down' the Walk and politely 'let[s] a Beetle pass'. This personifies nature as these are civilised actions usually associated with human behaviour. This implies that Dickinson feels a part of nature as she notices its relatable human qualities. Death is presented as a natural process. Dickinson acknowledges that within nature, death is necessary. Although she expresses sympathy for the angleworm, who is eaten 'raw' by the bird, she realises the significance of its death. Tertiary and secondary consumers rely on other animals as food sources. This indicates that death is vital as it maintains a balance within nature. In 'The last Night that She lived', nature is 'Italicised' by death. This proves that everything organic dies and so after seeing something or someone die, nature is much more appreciated. This is because death is a natural cause that is inevitable. In this poem, Dickinson presents nature as beautiful,