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Can anyone explain the meaning of the poem "There is a certain slant of light" by Emily Dickinson? I understand everything except the last two stanzas. Also can someone explain why she capitalizes certain common nouns. I think it because of personification, Heavens Hurt, Landscapes Listen, Shadows hold their breath. Is that right?

Here is the poem:

There's a certain Slant of light,
Winter Afternoons--
That opresses, like the Heft
Of Cathedral Tunes--

Heavenly Hurt, it gives us--
We can find no scar,
But internal difference,
Where the meanings are--

None may teach it--Any--
'Tis the Seal Despair--
An imperial affliction
Sent us of the Air--

When it comes, the Landscape listens--
Shadows--hold their breath--
When it goes, 'tis like the Distance
On the look of Death--

2007-02-05 10:33:02 · 1 answers · asked by ceci_*220* 2 in Arts & Humanities Other - Arts & Humanities

1 answers

I believe you are right about her choice of capitalization with personifications. I cannot answer your question. I struggle dutifully with her poems. But, I thought this page may help you. Good Luck.

http://www.english.uiuc.edu/maps/poets/a_f/dickinson/258.htm

2007-02-05 10:47:22 · answer #1 · answered by will.hunter 3 · 0 0

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