"Faith" is a fine invention

When Gentlemen can see -

But Microscopes are prudent

In an Emergency.

 

In this poem, Emily calls attention to the friction between science and religion. People only believe what they can see and use the invention of faith as a means to solve their life problems or health ailments. Yet in an emergency when something cannot be seen with the naked eye has to be examined, close scrutiny and inspection or science symbolized by microscopes prevails. 

 

1、According to the poem, faith is not only an “invention” but a redundant one as it is fit for “Gentlemen” who can already see what they want with their normal vision. But even this invention falls short of what is needed in an “Emergency”.