A Pang is more conspicuous in Spring

Emily Dickinson drafted this poem on the interior of an envelope that had been addressed to her sister, Lavinia. The unusual shape of the paper underscores the drama in this late poem.

A Pang is more conspicuous in Spring
In contrast with the things that sing
Not Birds entirely – but Minds –
And Winds – Minute Effulgencies
When what they sung for is undone
Who cares about a Blue Bird's Tune –
Why, Resurrection had to wait
Till they had moved a Stone –