It Passed by Me vs. It Streaked by Me

Attribute	It Passed by Me	It Streaked by Me
Speed	Fast	Very fast
Direction	Straight	Curved
Visibility	Clear	Blurry
Sound	Quiet	Loud

Introduction

When it comes to comparing two pieces of art, it is important to consider the various attributes that make each unique. In this article, we will be comparing the attributes of two poems: "It Passed by Me" by Emily Dickinson and "It Streaked by Me" by Walt Whitman. Both poems explore themes of fleeting moments and the passage of time, but they do so in different ways. By examining the language, imagery, and tone of each poem, we can gain a deeper understanding of how these two poets approach similar subjects.

Language

One of the key differences between "It Passed by Me" and "It Streaked by Me" is the language used by each poet. In Dickinson's poem, the language is more subdued and introspective. She uses words like "passed" to convey a sense of something fleeting and ephemeral. Whitman, on the other hand, uses more dynamic and energetic language in his poem. The word "streaked" suggests movement and speed, creating a sense of urgency and excitement. This difference in language reflects the overall tone of each poem, with Dickinson's being more contemplative and Whitman's being more active.

Imagery

Another important aspect to consider when comparing these two poems is the imagery used by each poet. In "It Passed by Me," Dickinson uses imagery that is subtle and understated. She describes the passing moment as a "glimmering girl," creating a sense of beauty and mystery. Whitman, on the other hand, uses more vivid and colorful imagery in "It Streaked by Me." He describes the moment as a "flash of lightning," evoking a sense of power and intensity. The imagery in each poem helps to create a distinct atmosphere and mood, with Dickinson's being more dreamlike and Whitman's being more dramatic.

Tone

The tone of a poem can greatly impact how it is perceived by the reader. In "It Passed by Me," Dickinson's tone is reflective and melancholic. She laments the passing of the moment, expressing a sense of longing and regret. Whitman, on the other hand, adopts a more celebratory tone in "It Streaked by Me." He revels in the fleeting nature of the moment, finding joy and excitement in its passing. The contrasting tones of these two poems highlight the different ways in which poets can approach similar themes, with Dickinson focusing on loss and Whitman focusing on the beauty of transience.

Conclusion

While both "It Passed by Me" and "It Streaked by Me" explore themes of fleeting moments and the passage of time, they do so in distinct ways. Dickinson's poem is characterized by its subdued language, subtle imagery, and reflective tone, while Whitman's poem is marked by its dynamic language, vivid imagery, and celebratory tone. By comparing the attributes of these two poems, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse ways in which poets can capture the essence of fleeting moments in their work.