Poem Analysis - These Saw Visions

A Gentle Farewell: An Overview

Emily Dickinson's "These saw Visions" is a delicate poem about loss and remembrance, specifically focused on the aftermath of a death, likely of a woman held in high esteem. The poem unfolds as a series of tender actions and observations relating to the deceased. The tone is initially hushed and reverent, marked by gentle gestures. As the poem progresses, a subtle shift towards celebration and acceptance occurs, as the speaker envisions a paradisiacal afterlife for the departed.

Whispers of Loss and the Comfort of Touch

One prominent theme is the acceptance of mortality, presented not as a harsh ending, but as a transition to a more beautiful realm. The opening lines, "These saw Visions / Latch them softly," suggest the closing of eyes that have experienced a profound final sight, and the gentle act of closing them symbolizes a peaceful passing. The actions described throughout, such as smoothing dimples and stroking satin, emphasize a desire to comfort and preserve the memory of the deceased. The phrase "departing accents" further underscores the finality of the loss, yet the speaker's imagined response ("Quick Sweet Mouth to miss thee so") shows a personal, immediate pain amidst the wider acceptance.

The Aurora's Fingers: Beauty and Transience

The poem utilizes powerful imagery to convey the beauty and fleeting nature of life. The line "Fingers of the Slim Aurora" is particularly striking. The aurora, a natural light display associated with dawn, symbolizes both beauty and the ephemeral. The image of fingers suggests a delicate touch, linking back to the earlier gestures of care. However, the contrast with "Not so arrogant this Noon" implies that the vibrant, assertive light of midday is less appropriate than the gentle, transient beauty of the aurora when remembering the departed. It hints that the speaker prefers the nuanced and reflective approach of remembering instead of overwhelming grief. The comparison to the aurora also suggests that the deceased possessed a radiant, ethereal quality.

Paradise Found: A Vision of the Afterlife

The theme of celebration of life emerges strongly in the final stanza. The preparations described ("These adjust that ran to meet us / Pearl for Stocking Pearl for Shoe") are reminiscent of dressing a loved one for a special occasion. The "Pearl for Stocking Pearl for Shoe" hints at exquisite details of dress, preparing the departed for a grand arrival. This culminates in the declaration that "Paradise the only Palace / Fit for Her reception now." This elevates the woman's status, suggesting that earthly palaces are insufficient to honor her. The poem thus reframes death not as an end, but as an elevation to a higher, more beautiful plane of existence. This offers solace to those left behind.

Symbolism of Clothing: A Metaphor for Transformation

Clothing emerges as a subtle yet potent symbol within the poem. The details of stockings and shoes, adorned with pearls, are not merely decorative; they represent a transformation, a preparation for a journey. Clothing often symbolizes identity, and in this context, the act of dressing the deceased can be interpreted as providing a new identity, one suited for paradise. This symbolism is strengthened by the earlier references to "Satin," suggesting richness and luxury. Perhaps the poem is suggesting that death itself is a kind of grand dressing, a transition from earthly attire to celestial garments.

A Final Reverie: Significance of the Poem

"These saw Visions" is a poignant meditation on loss, remembrance, and the hopeful acceptance of mortality. Through delicate imagery, hushed tones, and subtle symbolism, Dickinson crafts a poem that honors the deceased and offers comfort to the bereaved. The poem ultimately affirms the belief in a beautiful afterlife, transforming grief into a quiet celebration of a life lived and a soul now at peace, elevated to the highest form of beauty and acceptance.