Emily Dickinson Lexicon

forest (-s), n. [OFr < L. foris, outside.]

1. Expanse of land bearing trees; wilderness area; section of nature.
2. [Fig.] hopes; dreams. 2/App13 Never mind faded forests, Austin, / Never mind silent fields
3. [Fig.] soul.
4. [Fig.] attachment; inability to break free completely.
5. Place of shade; area bringing repose.