Emily Dickinson, in a child’s voice, wonders about heaven. Jasper is a precious stone associated (in Revelations) with the City of Heaven. Those who are ransomed have been redeemed.
3. What is – “Paradise”
What is – “Paradise” –
Who live there –
Are they “Farmers”–
Do they “hoe” –
Do they know that this is “Amherst” –
And that I – am coming – too –
Do they wear “new shoes” – in “Eden” –
Is it always pleasant – there –
Won’t they scold us – when we’re homesick –
Or tell God – how cross we are –
Are you sure there’s such a person
As “a Father” – in the sky –
So if I get lost – there – ever –
Or do what the Nurse calls “die” –
I shan’t walk the “Jasper” – barefoot –
Ransomed folks – won’t laugh at me –
Maybe – “Eden” a’n’t so lonesome
As New England used to be! (215)
Here is a recording.
Here is the next movement, Pie Jesu.