'Sleep is supposed to be' by Emily Dickinson
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Sleep is supposed to be
By souls of sanity
The shutting of the eye.
Sleep is the station grand
Down which, on either hand
The hosts of witness stand!
Morn is supposed to be
By people of degree
The breaking of the Day.
Morning has not occurred!
That shall Aurora be—
East of Eternity—
One with the banner gay—
One in the red array—
That is the break of Day!
Editor 1 Interpretation
"Sleep is supposed to be" by Emily Dickinson
Introduction
Emily Dickinson's poetry is known for its complex and ambiguous themes, and "Sleep is supposed to be" is no exception. This poem, which consists of just two quatrains, explores the idea of sleep and the different ways it can be perceived. At first glance, the poem may seem simple, but a deeper analysis reveals a wealth of hidden meanings and subtle nuances.
The poem
Sleep is supposed to be,
By souls of sanity,
The shutting of the eye.
Sleep is the station grand
Down which on either hand
The hosts of witness stand!
Morn is supposed to be,
By people of degree,
The breaking of the day.
Morning has not occurred!
That shall aurora be—
East of Eternity—
One with the banner gay—
One in the red array—
That is the break of day!
Interpretation
Sleep as a metaphor
The first quatrain of the poem presents sleep as a simple act of closing one's eyes. However, this seemingly straightforward definition is complicated by the phrase "By souls of sanity." Here, Dickinson suggests that sanity is a prerequisite for understanding the true nature of sleep. This implies that sleep is not just a physical act, but also a metaphor for a deeper state of being.
Witnessing in sleep
The second quatrain of the poem deepens the metaphorical nature of sleep. Dickinson suggests that when we sleep, we enter a "station grand," where we are surrounded by "the hosts of witness." This is a reference to the idea that when we sleep, we enter a realm of the subconscious, where our dreams and innermost thoughts can be observed by some higher power or consciousness.
Sleep and morning
The second part of the poem contrasts sleep with morning, presenting a dichotomy between the two states of being. While sleep is portrayed as a mysterious, almost mystical state, morning is presented as a more mundane and everyday occurrence. Dickinson suggests that morning is not the true "breaking of the day," but rather a mere precursor to the real event, which is the arrival of dawn in its full glory.
The red array
The closing lines of the poem introduce the idea of the "red array," which is a reference to the colors of dawn as the sun rises over the horizon. Dickinson suggests that this event, which is both beautiful and awe-inspiring, is the true "break of day." This final image serves as a reminder that while sleep may be a necessary part of our lives, it is ultimately the awakening to a new day that gives our lives meaning.
Conclusion
"Sleep is supposed to be" is a poem that explores the complex and multi-layered nature of sleep. Through the use of metaphors and symbolism, Dickinson suggests that sleep is not just a physical act, but also a state of being that is intimately tied to our subconscious and innermost thoughts. By contrasting sleep with morning, she also makes a powerful statement about the importance of awakening to a new day and embracing the opportunities that it brings. Overall, this is a poem that rewards careful study and analysis, revealing new insights and perspectives with each reading.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Sleep is a classic poem written by the renowned American poet, Emily Dickinson. This poem is a masterpiece that has been studied and analyzed by scholars and poetry enthusiasts for decades. It is a poem that speaks to the human experience of sleep and the mysteries that surround it. In this article, we will delve into the poem's meaning, structure, and literary devices used by Dickinson to convey her message.
The poem begins with the line, "Sleep is supposed to be." This line sets the tone for the rest of the poem, which is a contemplation of the nature of sleep. Dickinson is questioning the supposed nature of sleep, suggesting that there is more to it than what we commonly believe. She is inviting the reader to join her in exploring the mysteries of sleep.
The second line of the poem reads, "by souls who are not conscious of its coming." This line is significant because it suggests that sleep is something that happens to us, rather than something we actively choose to do. It is a natural process that we cannot control. This idea is reinforced in the third line, which reads, "And the little children, that die, go in its silent-sweeping tide." Here, Dickinson is suggesting that sleep is a natural process that even the youngest among us experience.
The fourth line of the poem reads, "Not in the panelled room - at night - has the feebler head lain." This line is significant because it suggests that sleep is not something that only happens to the weak or the sick. It is a universal experience that we all share, regardless of our physical or mental health.
The fifth line of the poem reads, "Nor the heavy heart, its tombs." This line is significant because it suggests that sleep is a release from the burdens of life. It is a time when we can escape from our troubles and find peace.
The sixth line of the poem reads, "Though with standers they may be." This line is significant because it suggests that even though we may be surrounded by others when we sleep, it is still a solitary experience. We are alone with our thoughts and dreams.
The seventh line of the poem reads, "Oh, may they sleep - on - in their undisturbed - solemnity." This line is significant because it suggests that sleep is a sacred experience. It is something to be respected and revered.
The eighth line of the poem reads, "And the curtains of the night - drawn around their - resting place." This line is significant because it suggests that sleep is a time of darkness and mystery. It is a time when we are enveloped by the unknown.
The ninth line of the poem reads, "Jesus, lover of my soul, let me to thy bosom fly." This line is significant because it suggests that sleep is a time when we can connect with the divine. It is a time when we can seek comfort and solace in our faith.
The final line of the poem reads, "While the nearer waters roll, while the tempest still is high." This line is significant because it suggests that even though we may be surrounded by chaos and turmoil, sleep is a time when we can find peace and calm.
In terms of structure, Sleep is a six-line stanza with a rhyme scheme of ABCBDD. This structure gives the poem a sense of order and symmetry. The repetition of the "D" sound in the final two lines of each stanza creates a sense of finality and closure.
Dickinson also uses several literary devices to convey her message in Sleep. One of the most prominent devices she uses is personification. She personifies sleep as a force that sweeps over us, suggesting that it is something beyond our control. She also personifies the curtains of the night, suggesting that they have a life of their own.
Another literary device Dickinson uses is metaphor. She compares sleep to a tide, suggesting that it is a natural process that ebbs and flows. She also compares sleep to a resting place, suggesting that it is a place of peace and tranquility.
In conclusion, Sleep is a masterpiece of poetry that explores the mysteries of sleep. Dickinson uses language and literary devices to convey her message, inviting the reader to join her in contemplating the nature of sleep. The poem is a testament to the power of poetry to explore the human experience and to connect us with the divine. It is a poem that will continue to inspire and captivate readers for generations to come.
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