The Background
"Faith is a Fine Invention" is a short poem composed by Emily Dickinson. The lady was known for her secluded and quiet life. She was able to compose several thought provoking poems in her lifetime. She’s widely known as one of the greatest female poets the world has ever produced.Here you will find the Meaning of Faith is a Fine Invention by famous poet Emily Dickinson.
The Structure
The poem faith is a fine invention is written in 4 short lines with no definite rhyme scheme. The poet used unique wordings and devices to illustrate her point.
The Meaning
The short poem tries to compare a man of faith with the man of science. The "microscope" used in the poem is a symbol of science. The "gentlemen who see" symbolizes the church leaders. The poet sees faith as a handy tool for church leaders. Nevertheless, she maintains that faith needs to be practical. It should also rely on the physical sense. For her, faith is futile if it’s not tempered by science of pragmatism.
From every indication, the poet frowns at how some Christians view faith. Oftentimes, they turn to faith and God in times of crisis. The poet maintains that faith must be mixed with practicality. She’s simply saying that there should be a practical balance between science and religion in the lives of Christians.
Well, the poem shows Dickinson’s view on religion and faith. She’s not well grounded on the subject of faith. Real faith in God doesn’t require science or pragmatism. Faith is a substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. It can’t work successfully with science.