AN AWFUL TEMPEST MASHED THE AIR

by: Emily Dickinson (1830-1886)

N awful tempest mashed the air,

The clouds were gaunt and few;

A black, as of a spectre's cloak,

Hid heaven and earth from view.

 

The creatures chuckled on the roofs

And whistled in the air,

And shook their fists and gnashed their teeth,

And swung their frenzied hair.

 

The morning lit, the birds arose;

The monster's faded eyes

Turned slowly to his native coast,

And peace was Paradise!

• Poems by Emily Dickinson - An extensive collection of her poetry.
• Emily Dickinson: Bibliography - A bibliography Dickinson's poetic and prose works; includes a list of critical resources.
• Purchase books by Emily Dickinson