Poem Analysis - Each Second Is The Last

Introduction: A Glimpse into Mortality's Edge

Emily Dickinson's "Each Second Is The Last" is a compact meditation on mortality and the agonizing potential of missed opportunity. The poem's tone is initially contemplative, almost detached, as it considers the fragile nature of time and consciousness. This gives way to a more intense, almost fearful reflection on failing to seize one's chances. The poem's stark imagery and concise language create a powerful sense of urgency and unease about life's fleeting moments.

Mortality and the Ephemeral Nature of Time

One of the primary themes explored in the poem is mortality. The opening line, "Each Second is the last," immediately establishes the precariousness of existence. Time is not presented as a continuous flow, but as a series of discrete, vanishing moments. The image of "measuring unconsciousness / The Sea and Spar between" evokes the liminal space between life and death, suggesting that each moment could be the last conscious experience. This reflects a common Dickinsonian theme of contemplating death not as a distant event, but as an ever-present possibility that defines the value of life.

The Terror of Missed Opportunity

The second stanza shifts the focus to the theme of wasted potential. The phrase "To fail within a Chance" highlights the terror of not utilizing opportunities. This theme goes beyond simple death, suggesting that missing a chance is worse than dying itself. The contrast between "perishing from the Chance’s list" and "Before the Perishing!" implies that merely existing, without grasping at life's possibilities, is a kind of living death, a more profound form of loss. This emphasizes the importance of actively engaging with life and facing challenges, rather than passively awaiting death.

Symbolism of the Sea and Spar: A Metaphor for Consciousness

The "Sea and Spar" is a powerful image representing the boundary of consciousness. The vast "Sea" can be interpreted as the realm of the unknown, the unconsciousness state before and after life. The "Spar" could symbolize the fragile, precarious existence of conscious awareness. This image suggests that consciousness is a small, vulnerable object adrift in an immense ocean, constantly at risk of being submerged. This imagery reinforces the poem's overall exploration of mortality and the delicate nature of human existence, creating a space for interpretation of what these images could truly represent.

Conclusion: A Call to Embrace the Present

"Each Second Is The Last" encapsulates Dickinson's characteristic exploration of mortality and the human condition. By emphasizing the fleeting nature of time and the greater tragedy of squandered opportunities, the poem serves as a poignant reminder to embrace each moment and live fully. The poem's power lies in its concise language and evocative imagery, which prompt readers to reflect on their own mortality and the choices they make within the limited time they have. The poem’s significance is that it turns our focus inward and challenges us to evaluate if we are truly living, or simply existing "before the perishing!".