Poem Analysis - Like Mighty Foot Lights Burned The Red

A Theatrical Sunset

Emily Dickinson’s "Like Mighty Foot Lights burned The Red" paints a vivid picture of a sunset, transforming the natural world into a grand theatrical production. The poem's tone is initially awe-struck and observant, gradually shifting to a more personal and perhaps slightly audacious perspective. The sunset is not merely a beautiful sight but an elaborate performance, witnessed by the speaker who ultimately sees herself in a unique relationship with God. The short, concise lines contribute to the sense of contained wonder and dramatic intensity.

Divine Drama: A World Staged

One of the central themes of the poem is the grandeur of nature as a form of divine artistry. The opening lines immediately establish this connection by comparing the setting sun to "Mighty Foot Lights" at the "Bases of the Trees." This theatrical metaphor elevates the natural world, suggesting that the sunset is a carefully orchestrated performance. The use of words like "Theatricals" and "Exhibiting" further reinforces this idea, suggesting a deliberate display of beauty for an audience.

Ego and Divinity

Another key theme is the speaker's personal relationship with the divine, bordering on a sense of chosen status. While the "Universe" applauds the sunset, the speaker claims to be "distinguished" by her own "Royal Dress." This shift suggests that the speaker sees herself as more than just an observer; she is somehow uniquely recognized by God. The bold assertion "Myself distinguished God" can be interpreted in multiple ways: that God made her distinguished, or perhaps, more audaciously, that her perception distinguishes God.

The Symbolism of Light and Royal Appearance

The recurring image of red light is powerfully symbolic. As the color of the setting sun, it represents not only beauty but also the potential end of a cycle, reminiscent of closing nights in theatre. Furthermore, the speaker's "Royal Dress" – although not explicitly defined, could symbolize the inner worth or perspective that sets her apart. Is she wearing a literal robe, or is it perhaps a metaphor for her spiritual awareness? This ambiguity allows the reader to contemplate the nature of true distinction and how one perceives oneself in relation to the divine.

An Audacious Perspective: Conclusion

In conclusion, "Like Mighty Foot Lights burned The Red" is a remarkable poem that transforms a simple sunset into a profound meditation on nature, divinity, and self-perception. Dickinson uses vivid imagery and theatrical metaphors to explore the relationship between the natural world, a divine creator, and the individual. The poem's audacity and its open-ended nature challenge readers to consider their own roles in the "Theatricals of Day," and prompts reflection on how we, in turn, distinguish the concept of God through our experiences and perspectives.