There's a certain Slant of light,
Winter Afternoons −
That oppresses, like the Heft
Of Cathedral Tunes −
Heavenly Hurt, it gives us −
We can find no scar,
But internal difference,
Where the Meanings, are −
None may teach it − Any −
'Tis the Seal Despair −
An imperial affliction
Dickinson emphasizes the definition of grief over someone’s death. She sheds light on the mental and emotional scars that are etched into one’s heart, despite being hidden from others by superficial expressions. Through her use of religious imagery and diction, Dickinson employs an incredibly poignant tone, ultimately implying that divinity pinpoints the transformative essence that also exists while mourning. 
 Handling death, as Dickinson would suggest, is a full-mind-and-body experience; it does not leave a “scar” physically, but changes a person “internal[ly]”. The impact resonates from mind to heart to soul. In addition, by choosing to use the word “gives,” Dickinson implies that the mental effect is undeniable, ultimately eliminating the option of rejection. Dickinson emphasizes the pain and emotional distress that the death of a loved one brings. 

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