There's a Certain Slant of Light
The poem explores the theme of mortality and the fleeting nature of life. It describes a moment when the speaker's perception of reality is altered by a change in light, symbolizing the transition from life to death. The poem also touches on the idea that even in moments of beauty, there can be an underlying sense of melancholy and loss.
By Emily Dickinson · First published 1866 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Symbolism · 129 words
First lines
There's a certain slant of light, On winter afternoons, That oppresses, like the weight Of cathedral tunes.
Heavenly hurt it gives us; We can find no scar, But internal difference Where the meanings are.
None may teach it anything, 'T is the seal, despair, -- An imperial affliction Sent us of the air.
When it comes, the landscape listens, Shadows hold their breath; When it goes, 't is like the distance On the look of death.
What this Textopian page supports
There's a Certain Slant of Light is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emily Dickinson, dated 1866 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Emily Dickinson
- Date: 1866 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Symbolism, Metaphysical, Nature
- Length: 129 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
- Requiem by Emily Dickinson
- With A Flower by Emily Dickinson
- Death by Emily Dickinson
- Dying by Emily Dickinson
- A Well by Emily Dickinson
- Till The End by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing meter and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, typical of lyric poetry.
- Symbolism — The poem uses symbolic imagery, such as light and shadows, to convey deeper meanings.
- Metaphysical — The poem explores complex themes of existence, despair, and the human condition, aligning with metaphysical poetry.
Tags
Poetry · Nature · Mortality · Spirituality · Existentialism · Philosophy · Imagery · Symbolism · Metaphor · Personification · Solitude · Longing