The name—of it—is “Autumn” (656) Lyrics

The name—of it—is "Autumn"—
The hue—of it—is Blood—
An Artery—upon the Hill—
A Vein—along the Road—

Great Globules—in the Alleys—
And Oh, the Shower of Stain—
When Winds—upset the Basin—
And spill the Scarlet Rain—

It sprinkles Bonnets—far below—
It gathers ruddy Pools—
Then—eddies like a Rose—away—
Upon Vermilion Wheels—

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About

Genius Annotation

Emily Dickinson’s untitled poem (referred to by its first line) relates the shedding of blood to the reddening hills of autumn. Using her classic dash-heavy structure and strong imagery, Dickinson builds a sanguine picture of the changing season.

This poem is often viewed as a commentary on the bloodshed of the Civil War, particularly during the turbulent autumn battles in 1862. It bears noting that this piece also contains references to female menstruation. The references to “ruddy pools” and the “scarlet rain” are unmistakably reminiscent of the female cycle, which, like autumn, depicts a time of change and the start of something new.

Q&A

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the song and explore its deeper meaning

  1. 122.
    Home
  2. 282.
    Remorse
  3. 354.
    The name—of it—is “Autumn” (656)
  4. 420.
    Train
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