Known for her use of fragmented sentences, her unexpected imagery, and her innovative use of the dash, the American poet Emily Dickinson died on this day in 1886.
Born in Massachusetts, Dickinson spent much of her life in isolation. She communicated with her acquaintances by letter only and remained at home to care for her bedridden mother. All the while, however, she was writing prolifically.
Her work – which often explored Death, Nature, and Immortality – was discovered after her death and then published by her friends in what was at first a highly censored form.
Recognized today as one of the most significant figures in American poetry, her poems are still studied by school students and scholars alike, while her life has been the focus of several books and films.
As distinctive as Emily Dickinson’s verse may be, her first name, Emily, is now a well-known staple across the globe. Ranking in the Top 50 in 17 different countries – from the US to Chile, from Scotland to Italy – Emily is unarguably a favorite.
Derived from the Roman name Aemilius, via the masculine name Emil, Emily means “rival”. And it certainly could be a rival for the likes of Emmeline, Amelia, Amelie, Emilia, Emma, and Milly – which parents may have a tough time choosing among.
With its simultaneous strength and softness, its cute nicknames – Emmy, Milly and Em – its rich literary history – from Emily Dickinson to Emily Brontë– and its appealing, flowing sound, it is no wonder that Emily remains a popular choice today.