‘Beloved recognition’

Photo by Griffinstorm

Photo by Griffinstorm

Struck, was I, nor yet by Lightning –
Lightning – lets away
Power to perceive His Process
With Vitality –

Maimed – was I – yet not by Venture –
Stone of Stolid Boy –
Nor a Sportsman’s Peradventure –
Who mine Enemy?

Robbed – was I – intact to Bandit –
All my Mansion torn –
Sun – withdrawn to Recognition –
Furthest shining – done –

Yet was not the foe – of any –
Not the smallest Bird
In the nearest Orchard dwelling –
Be of Me – afraid –

Most – I love the Cause that slew Me –
Often as I die
It’s beloved Recognition
Holds a Sun on Me –

Best – at Setting – as is Nature’s –
Neither witnessed Rise
Till the infinite Aurora
In the Other’s Eyes –

— By Emily Dickinson (1830-1886)