Our Lives Are Swiss, Emily Dickinson: Summary & Analysis

"OUR LIVES ARE SWISS" by Emily Dickinson presents a contemplation on life's serenity and the sudden revelations that can disrupt its tranquility. The poem utilizes the imagery of the Swiss Alps to explore the idea of a calm existence unexpectedly interrupted by the allure of distant lands. OUR LIVES ARE SWISS Our lives are Swiss — So still — so Cool — Till some odd afternoon The Alps neglect their Curtains And we look farther on! Italy stands the other side! While like a guard between — The solemn Alps — The siren Alps Forever intervene! Summary "OUR LIVES ARE SWISS" explores the peaceful and uneventful nature of human existence, likened to the calmness of Switzerland. However, the poem hints at the possibility of unexpected disruptions that draw one's attention beyond their current circumstances, such as the allure of Italy on the other side of the Alps. The "siren Alps" symbolize the captivating allure of distant lands that forever come between th…