Success Is Counted Sweetest Analysis

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The greatest appreciation is reserved for that which is most difficult to obtain. Emily Dickinson conveys this message in her poem, “Success is Counted Sweetest”, by reflecting on instances where this is thought to hold true. The poem is written in a conclusive attitude, utilizing imagery and a specific structure which further emphasizes the poet's message. Success is delivered in a way such as that once one obtains an item, they lose the need for it. This is reflected upon in the first two lines, “Success is counted sweetest / By those who ne'er succeed” (1-2). The statement is a paradox, and through it the poet shows that those who have not experienced success crave it, the thought consuming their dreams. To know the sweet, or what is desired,