From Hedy:This drawing of Dickinson is by my daughter, Kat.

Ever since planting the Emily Dickinson Garden at the Library, we’ve delighted in hosting St. Ambrose University English professor Bea Jacobson who leads a discussion of Dickinson’s poetry twice a year.  The discussions are held in May (Dickinson died May 15th) and December (Dickinson was born December 10th).  We usually have a theme.  This year it’s Death and Dying in commemoration of the 124th anniversary of Dickinson’s death and as a remembrance of Memorial Day later in the month.  We’ll start in the Garden, just to bask in its ambience, and then retire to the Program Room where we’ll enjoy ice tea, herb scones, and grapes provided by Dewey’s Cafe. 

 We’ll read and informally discuss as many of the following poems as we’ve time for: I never lost as much but twice; Safe in their Alabaster Chambers; They dropped like Flakes; I died for Beauty–but was scarce; I heard a Fly buzz–when I died; Because I could not stop for Death; A Death blow is a Life blow to Some; The Bustle in a House; Death is the supple Suitor; Could that sweet Darkness where they dwell; My life closed twice before its close.  The texts can be found in compilations of Dickinson’s poetry or on a handout available at the Library in hardcopy.  We can also mail or email you a copy if you call us at 344-4179 or email info@bettendorflibrary.com.