Poem Analysis - Sleep Is Supposed To Be

A Dissatisfaction with Reality

Emily Dickinson's "Sleep Is Supposed To Be" is a short but potent exploration of disillusionment with accepted realities. The poem begins with an expectation of sleep and morning, only to shatter that expectation, leaving the reader suspended in a state of anticipation. The tone initially presents a sense of normalcy, almost clinical observation, but it quickly shifts to one of longing and frustrated anticipation. Dickinson's characteristic use of capitalization and dashes amplifies the poem's emotional intensity, adding to its overall sense of yearning.

The Failure of Expectation

One of the central themes of the poem is the failure of expectation. The opening lines establish a societal "supposed to be" around sleep: "Sleep is supposed to be / By souls of sanity / The shutting of the eye." This paints a picture of sleep as a simple, almost mechanical act. Similarly, "Morn is supposed to be / By people of degree / The breaking of the Day." This suggests that morning is a predictable, orderly occurrence for those of "degree," implying social status and order. However, the abrupt line, "Morning has not occurred!" directly contradicts this expectation, disrupting the established sense of order and revealing a deeper yearning for something more, something beyond the mundane.

The Allure of Transcendence

The poem's second key theme is the allure of transcendence, a desire to move beyond the ordinary. The lines describing what "shall Aurora be" present a vision of the dawn that is far from the simple "breaking of the Day." Instead, it is a glorious, almost mythical event that resides "East of Eternity." The use of "Eternity" suggests something beyond earthly comprehension, and Aurora, the Roman goddess of dawn, is elevated to a symbol of something truly divine and awe-inspiring. The "banner gay" and "red array" evoke a sense of triumph and grandeur, further emphasizing the transcendent nature of this idealized morning.

The Power of Light and Color

The recurring images of light and color serve as powerful symbols throughout the poem. "The shutting of the eye" suggests darkness, a cessation of consciousness. In contrast, "Aurora," with her vibrant "banner gay" and "red array," represents the promise of enlightenment and renewal. The contrast emphasizes the difference between the dull reality of everyday sleep and the longed-for, extraordinary experience of a truly awakened state. The color red, often associated with passion, energy, and even revolution, imbues the idealized dawn with a sense of fervent anticipation. Is Dickinson implying that true awakening is not just about seeing the light but also about embracing a more vibrant and passionate existence?

Yearning for a Different Reality

In conclusion, "Sleep Is Supposed To Be" is a poignant expression of longing for a reality that transcends the limitations of everyday experience. Dickinson uses the expected cycles of sleep and morning as a framework to explore themes of disillusionment and the powerful desire for something more profound. The poem's imagery, particularly the contrast between darkness and light, reinforces the idea that true awakening is not merely a physical phenomenon, but a transformation of the soul. The poem leaves us with a sense of yearning, a reminder that the most beautiful experiences are often those that we anticipate but have yet to fully realize.