I stepped from Plank to PlankSo slow and cautiously The Stars about my Head I felt, About my Feet the Sea.I knew not but the next Would be my final inch –This gave me that precarious GaitSome call Experience.

Emily Dickinson
About This Quote

I stepped from Plank to Plank. This poem is about the poet trying to cross the ocean in a rowboat. The poet is unsure of what he will encounter in the next plank he stands on, but he knows that the next plank could be his last. He must take care, and take his time making sure he doesn't fall into the sea. The trick is not to rush or be too careless when getting out of each plank.

Source: The Complete Poems Of Emily Dickinson

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