101 Poems, Number 58

Favorite Poems Throughout My Life

58: “A Little Madness in the Spring,” 1875, by Emily Dickinson (1830–86)

“A little madness in the spring”?

Miss Emily—she knew a thing.

Or two. Or, well, infinity—

Or so it seems at least to me.

And this one—like most others—short,

So I can give a quick report:

The spring belongs to everyone—

Don’t claim the blossoms, warmer sun.

For if you claim them, you’re a “clown”—

Deserving of no fame, renown.

It’s better to be modest, Yo—

Yes, humble for each vernal show!

Link to poem.