Poem Analysis - As Plan For Noon And Plan For Night

Brief Overview

Emily Dickinson's "As Plan For Noon And Plan For Night" is a concise meditation on the parallels and distinctions between life and death. The poem adopts a reflective, almost philosophical tone, comparing the experience of living with the anticipation of death. The mood is initially observational, but shifts towards a more emotionally resonant contemplation of love and the effort required for completion. The poem uses the simple image of "the Foot" to make the complex and weighty idea of the human life and death transition, easier to conceptualize.

The Dichotomy of Life and Death

One central theme in this poem is the contrast between life and death. Dickinson frames this contrast through the analogy of "Noon" and "Night," suggesting that life and death are not simply opposites, but rather different phases or aspects of existence. The "plan" for each is distinct, implying different sets of expectations and experiences. The poem directly states that "Life and Death" differ "In positive Prospective," meaning that their potential and future directions are fundamentally different. This difference is further emphasized by the image of the foot, which symbolizes human action and progress.

The Strain of Existence and Conclusion of Life

The poem also explores the effort and strain associated with both living and dying. The "Foot upon the Earth" suggests the active, forward-moving energy of life, striving for "Distance, and Achievement." Conversely, "The Foot upon the Grave" indicates the end of that striving, making "effort at conclusion." This effort at the end is not independent, though; Dickinson notes that it is "Assisted faint of Love." This line introduces a nuance – that even in death, love plays a role, perhaps offering comfort or support in the final transition. The implication is that both life and death require work, with love playing a part in helping ease the burden of the end of that work.

Love's Guiding Presence

Love emerges as a critical component, particularly in the face of death. While life is presented as a striving towards personal goals, death is softened by the presence of love. Dickinson's phrase, "Assisted faint of Love," doesn't just imply support; it suggests a gentle, almost ethereal aid. "Faint" here may not only describe the love itself, but also the degree to which love is received by the dying, being a faint but important force at the end of life. This subtle inclusion of love suggests that while death involves a certain ending and effort, it is not entirely devoid of connection and comfort.

Symbolic Foot: Journey and Transition

The recurring image of "the Foot" serves as a powerful symbol of the human journey. In life, the foot is actively moving, pursuing goals and achievements. In death, the foot, now "upon the Grave," symbolizes the finality of that journey. The shift in position—from earth to grave—underscores the transition from active participation to passive completion. The foot acts as a metaphor for our limited existence. The imagery associated with the foot helps to develop and reinforce the broader themes of life, death, and the efforts involved in each.

Final Thoughts on Mortality

In conclusion, "As Plan For Noon And Plan For Night" is a thoughtful exploration of the contrasts and connections between life and death. The poem uses simple yet evocative imagery, particularly the symbol of the "Foot," to illustrate the different phases of existence and the efforts involved in each. The inclusion of love as an "assistant" in the final conclusion offers a poignant insight: that even in the face of death, human connection and affection retain their significance, softening the ultimate transition. The poem's brevity allows for multiple interpretations, encouraging readers to reflect on their own perspectives on mortality and the journey of life.