At first glance, the reclusive American poet Emily Dickinson and the ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu might seem worlds apart. Yet, a closer look reveals a surprising resonance in their observations about the nature of reality, particularly in their shared appreciation for the concept of “P’u” or the uncarved block.

In the Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu uses the uncarved block as a metaphor for the Dao, the fundamental principle underlying all of existence. The uncarved block represents a state of pure potentiality, undifferentiated and unshaped. It is from this state of P’u that all things emerge and to which they eventually return.

Similarly, Dickinson’s poetry often explores the concept of potentiality and the power of the unformed. In her poem “I dwell in Possibility,” she describes poetry as a boundless realm where “the fairest – finest – Hours – / Are Birds of Paradise –.” This echoes Lao Tzu’s description of the Dao as the source of all creation, a wellspring of infinite possibilities.

“All the letters I could write“

Both Dickinson and Lao Tzu recognize the limitations of language in capturing the essence of this uncarved state. Lao Tzu famously states, “The Tao that can be spoken is not the abiding Tao.” Dickinson, in her poem “All the letters I could write,” suggests that written words cannot fully express the depth of human emotion and experience, yearning instead for a more direct and intimate connection.

All the letters I can write
Are not fair as this —
Syllables of Velvet —
Sentences of Plush,
Depths of Ruby, undrained,
Hid, Lip, for Thee —
Play it were a Humming Bird —
And just sipped — me —

source: https://allpoetry.com/All-the-letters-I-can-write

Dickinson juxtaposes the inadequacy of letters with the sensory richness of nature. The imagery of “Velvet” and “Plush” suggests that while words can be elegant, they lack the depth and immediacy of real emotion. The ruby, a gem traditionally associated with the heart, signifies a wealth of feeling that remains concealed, available only to someone who might “sip” just her essence. The hummingbird metaphor hints at a fragile, intimate connection where the recipient can only briefly capture the fullness of her being. Ultimately, Dickinson explores the ineffable nature of human emotion and the struggle to convey it through language.

In this brief yet intense poem, Dickinson’s choice of imagery emphasizes that true connection and understanding often transcend the written word. Her words serve as a vessel, but it is the recipient’s perception and ability to grasp the unspoken emotions that matter most.

For both Dickinson and Lao Tzu, true understanding comes not through intellectual analysis or linguistic description but through direct experience. Lao Tzu encourages us to empty ourselves and become receptive to the Dao’s subtle workings. Dickinson, in her poems, often uses vivid imagery and sensory details to evoke a direct experience of the natural world and the inner landscape of human emotion.

The uncarved block also represents a state of simplicity and authenticity. Lao Tzu advocates for a life lived in accordance with the Dao’s natural flow, free from artificial constructs and societal expectations. Dickinson, in her own way, rejected societal norms and embraced a life of solitude and introspection, allowing her to cultivate a unique and powerful poetic voice.

Some of their parallels appear to be

• Emphasis on potentiality and the unformed: Both see the uncarved block as a source of infinite possibilities, a state from which all things emerge.
• Limitations of language: Both acknowledge that words cannot fully capture the essence of the Dao or the depths of human experience.
• Importance of direct experience: Both emphasize the need to engage with reality directly, through intuition, sensory perception, and lived experience.
• Value of simplicity and authenticity: Both advocate for a life lived in accordance with nature, free from artificiality and societal pressures.

The concept of the uncarved block, propounded by Lao Tzu and with parallels in Emily Dickinson’s perception of direct experience can offer profound insights into the nature of reality and the path to a more fulfilling life. They encourage us to embrace simplicity, cultivate inner stillness, and open ourselves to the boundless possibilities that emerge from a state of pure potentiality. Their wisdom transcends cultural and historical boundaries, offering timeless guidance for navigating the complexities of human existence.