My recent posts have highlighted some Baader Meinhof moments I’ve experienced, and yesterday’s (HERE) dealt with the word “quotidian.” I then checked Dickinson’s poetry for any use of “quotidian,” “daily,” “ordinary,” “common,” and “routine.”
It turns out that Dickinson wrote just one poem with the word “routine,” “To make Routine a Stimulus,” and what a wonderful poem that is. That opening line, “To make Routine a Stimulus” conveys such an uplifting message, and TBH, it epitomizes so succinctly the poetry of Emily Dickinson.
It turns out that Dickinson wrote just one poem with the word “routine,” “To make Routine a Stimulus,” and what a wonderful poem that is. That opening line, “To make Routine a Stimulus” conveys such an uplifting message, and TBH, it epitomizes so succinctly the poetry of Emily Dickinson.
 | Of course, the poem is decidedly oxymoronic, and it reminds me of past morning commutes when I’d pull up to a 7-11 for a cup of their “Regular Exclusive” coffee (alas, I don’t think they call it that anymore). What a wonderful designation, huh? To sip one’s “regular” daily fuel that is utterly “exclusive” – and it is so accurately mirrored in the opening line of Dickinson’s poem. This poem embraces the paradoxical idea that the familiarity of routine can be transformed into a source of inspiration and wonder. It suggests that one should embrace the “here and now” for the beauty within even the smallest details – for they can provide a sense of beauty and renewal. |
Even when looking back at some experience, one can “live and learn,” for experience examined from a distance can be meaningful and/or healing.
The second half of the poem explores this notion: The "arrow of Retrospect" could refer to the passing of time and the ability to learn from past experiences. The "power to repair" suggests that even in the midst of routine, there is a chance for growth and improvement – and something that is "Departed with the torment" can "Become, alas, more fair” (a la “time heals all wounds”?).
What do you make of this poem?
The second half of the poem explores this notion: The "arrow of Retrospect" could refer to the passing of time and the ability to learn from past experiences. The "power to repair" suggests that even in the midst of routine, there is a chance for growth and improvement – and something that is "Departed with the torment" can "Become, alas, more fair” (a la “time heals all wounds”?).
What do you make of this poem?
Below: The NYT "Word of the Day" was "quotidian" on March 21, 2025 (HERE). Also: Some of my favorite oxymorons.
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