Heart, we will forget him, You and I, tonight! You must forget the warmth he gave, I will forget the light.
Emily DickinsonRead
Tell all the Truth but tell it slant-- Success in Circuit lies Too bright for our infirm Delight The Truth's superb surprise As Lightning to the Children eased With explanation kind The Truth must dazzle gradually Or every man be blind--
Interpretation
What this quote means
Truth should be conveyed delicately to be well received.
Emily Dickinson's quote reflects on the nature of truth and how it can be overwhelming when presented too abruptly. She suggests that truth should be shared gently, as a gradual revelation, allowing individuals to process its impact without being blinded by its brilliance. This implies that in our interactions, especially with sensitive subjects, it is important to approach truth with kindness and consideration for others' understanding.
Themes
TruthHonestyUnderstandingWisdomDelicacyCommunication
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about honesty in relationships.
More from Emily Dickinson
All quotes →I held a jewel in my fingers And went to sleep. The day was warm, and winds were prosy; I said: "'T will keep." I woke and chid my honest fingers,— The gem was gone; And now an amethyst remembrance Is all I own.
Emily DickinsonRead
I'll tell you how the sun rose, a ribbon at a time. The steeples swam in amethyst, The news like squirrels ran. The hills untied their bonnets, The bobolinks begun. Then I said softly to myself, "That must have been the sun!
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My best Acquaintances are those With Whom I spoke no Word
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This is the Hour of Lead- Remembered, if outlived, As freezing persons, recollect the Snow- First-Chill-then Stupor- then the letting go---
Emily DickinsonRead
Luck is not chance, it's toil; fortune's expensive smile is earned.
Emily DickinsonRead
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