Emily Dickinson uses symbols to show death as confusing and unsettling. The "blue – uncertain – stumbling Buzz" of the fly represents the body's breakdown, interrupting the expected peaceful journey to the afterlife. Light may stand for life or understanding, but the fly gets in the way, focusing on the physical side of death instead of a spiritual one. The failing windows show the loss of awareness, and "I could not see to see" emphasizes the finality and mystery of death.