The inspirational foundation is the Emily Dickinson poem of the same name. Through five movements, each named after a phrase from the poem, Hedwig builds his dialogue slowly in intensity. "The music moves, generally, from darkness to light, with occasional moments of reflection and conflict along the way as the drama unfolds...The musical language combines elements of traditional musical melody and tonality, with atonality, minimalism, and even hints of jazz...traces of traditional religious liturgical musical forms and idioms, as well." (Chattanooga Symphony and Opera program notes) For advanced performers.

I. Heavenly Hurt
II. Internal Difference
III. Landscape Listens
IV. Shadows Hold Their Breath
V. Illumination