The public is invited to the Dickinson Homestead for silent reading, writing and reflection, Thursday morning, October 26th.

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How about Thursday, October 26th from 10:00 a.m. until noon?

That is when the Emily Dickinson Homestead will be open to visitors – not for touring, but for sitting quietly and escaping the constant noise and demands of modern life. Participants are encouraged to pursue such silent activities as reading, writing or sketching. Chairs will be available, as will copies of Emily’s poetry.

The occasion is entitled “‘Silence as a Company’: Quiet Time at the Dickinson Homestead,” which comes from a line in her poem “To own the Art within the Soul.”

“We want people to be able to just come in, no tour, and have a meditative experience while at the Homestead. It is a quiet time, so you can clear your mind,” said Tony Maroulis, coordinator of development and marketing for the Emily Dickinson Museum. “Obviously, Emily is known for her own solitude, and this is an homage to that as well.”

Maroulis said that it is intended for this to become a monthly event.

“There is a belief among Dickinson fans and faithful that you can actually feel the presence of Emily within the homestead,” said Maroulis. “With this, we hope her spirit will come alive even more for these people.”

Turn off the cell phone. Give the Blackberry a rest. Enjoy the respite of communal quiet in an inspirational setting.

A $5 donation is requested. For more information, call 542-8161, or go to www.emilydickinsonmuseum.org.

-- Stephanie O’Keeffe