Tell all the Truth but tell it slant

by

Tell all the Truth but tell it slant is Dickinson's artistic manifesto, arguing that truth must be delivered indirectly — "slant" — because its full brilliance would blind us. "The Truth must dazzle gradually / Or every man be blind —"
Author Emily Dickinson
Credit for portrait of Emily Dickinson: Todd-Bingham picture collection, 1837-1966 (inclusive). Manuscripts & Archives, Yale University.
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 —