When Roses Cease to Bloom, Emily Dickinson: Summary & Analysis

"When Roses Cease to Bloom, Sir" by Emily Dickinson contemplates the fleeting nature of beauty and life. The poem envisions a time when roses and violets no longer bloom, when bumblebees have ceased their flight, and summer has given way to autumn. The speaker suggests that the hand that once gathered flowers on a summer day will eventually be idle and lie in the grave. The speaker asks that the gathered flowers be taken, acknowledging the transience of life and the need to appreciate beauty while it lasts. When Roses Cease to Bloom, Sir When Roses cease to bloom, Sir, And Violets are done — When Bumblebees in solemn flight Have passed beyond the Sun — The hand that paused to gather Upon this Summer's day Will idle lie — in Auburn — Then take my flowers — pray! Summary "When Roses Cease to Bloom, Sir" reflects on the ephemeral nature of beauty and life. The poem envisions a time when flowers no longer bloom and bumblebees no longer buzz in the air. The speaker c…