Poem Analysis - She Died This Was The Way She Died

A Gentle Departure

Emily Dickinson's "She Died this Was The Way She Died" is a brief, poignant meditation on death and the transition to the afterlife. The poem presents a softened, almost serene view of death, avoiding the typical angst or mourning often associated with the subject. The tone is matter-of-fact initially, almost reportorial, but shifts towards wonder and acceptance as the poem progresses. Dickinson crafts a scene of gentle ascension, where death is not an ending, but a journey towards light and possibly, a heavenly reunion.

The Sun as a Symbol of Hope

One of the central themes in the poem is that of hope in the face of death. This is largely conveyed through the powerful image of the "sun." Instead of focusing on the darkness and despair that often accompany death, Dickinson envisions the deceased setting out "for the sun." The sun symbolizes warmth, light, and new beginnings. It suggests a positive destination after death, a place of radiance and possibly, spiritual enlightenment. This image counters the typical somber depiction of death, offering a sense of comfort and reassurance.

Mortality and Transcendence

The poem explores the theme of mortality and the possibility of transcendence. The very first line, "She died this was the way she died," is a blunt acknowledgement of death's reality. However, the subsequent lines immediately transition to a focus on what happens after death. The act of taking up her "simple wardrobe" suggests a readiness for the journey ahead, a practical preparation for a new phase of existence. The inability of the speaker to find her "upon the mortal side" emphasizes the separation between the earthly realm and the spiritual destination she has reached, implying a transcendence beyond the limitations of mortality.

Angels at the Gate

The presence of angelic figures is a key symbol in understanding Dickinson's perspective on the afterlife. The line, "The Angels must have spied," implies that the deceased was welcomed into the heavenly realm. The image of angels watching at the gate creates a sense of divine guardianship and acceptance. It suggests that the transition from life to death is not a solitary or frightening experience, but rather a guided and protected passage. The angels' observation also highlights the significance of the deceased's arrival, indicating that her journey is anticipated and celebrated in the spiritual realm.

A Final Journey

In conclusion, "She Died this Was The Way She Died" offers a gentle and hopeful perspective on death. By focusing on the journey towards the sun, the welcoming presence of angels, and the transcendence beyond the mortal realm, Dickinson diminishes the fear typically associated with death. The poem ultimately suggests that death is not an end, but a transition to a brighter, perhaps even heavenly, existence. The poem's enduring significance lies in its ability to offer comfort and solace by envisioning death as a peaceful departure towards light and acceptance.