Emily Dickinson's "There's a certain slant of light" is a poem that can trick the reader at first glance. The word "light" is almost instinctively thought of as a good thing. However, the symbol of light in this poem, represents more of an oppressing, ominous weight; that serves as a burden for the narrator. This can be seen in "oppresses like the heft of cathedral tunes" and "heavenly hurt". The idea that a religious song could weigh down on someone or the idea of a sort of unearthly pain, supports this burdensome light. The interesting thing about both of these quotes is the allude to religion, which could be used to reinforce the religious aspect of light.
In addition the symbol of light, there is an abundance of imagery found within the poem. The lines "heavenly hurt it gives us. We can find no scar", and "an imperial affliction" are two of the most important lines in my opinion. They are what really create the true image of light in the poem. "Heavenly hurt" leaving "no scar" suggests an emotional, no physical pain felt due to this light. "imperial affliction" is an interesting description of light; one that covers everything but is a plague rather than something that is good.
In my opinion, the tone of the poem is one of gloom and depression, much like most of Dickinson's work. However it interested me how at first glance how the poem seemed more of an uplifting one due to the use of the word light. The way in which the author transforms light into darkness within a few short lines is what really captured my interest.
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