Ep 1. Because I could not stop

The show Dickinson is a coming-of-age story about American poet Emily Dickinson. Season 1 episode 1, "Because I could not stop," takes us back to the 19th century and introduces us to a young Emily who is struggling to find her place in a society that does not value women's voices.

The episode opens with Emily sneaking out of her family's home to attend a party with her brother Austin. The party is filled with young men and women drinking and dancing, but Emily's attention is drawn to a young man named Ben who is reciting a poem. Emily is enamored by Ben and excitedly tells him about her own poetry, but he dismisses her writing as "silly." This interaction leaves Emily feeling discouraged and dejected.

Back at home, Emily's parents are pressuring her to find a suitable husband and settle down. However, Emily is resistant to conforming to society's expectations and instead chooses to spend her time writing poetry. She confides in her best friend Sue, expressing her desire to be published and recognized for her work.

Throughout the episode, Emily's poetry is interspersed with scenes from her daily life. Her writing is filled with vivid imagery and raw emotion, showcasing her talent and passion for the written word. However, her parents do not understand or appreciate her art, seeing it as a frivolous hobby at best.

As the episode progresses, we see Emily wrestling with her own inner demons. Her poetry becomes a way for her to cope with her loneliness and frustration, but also with her own mortality. This is highlighted in a dream sequence where Emily finds herself on a carriage ride with Death itself, as they travel through the stages of life.

Despite her struggles, Emily continues to write and create, determined to have her voice heard. The episode ends with Emily standing up to her father and declaring that she will not conform to society's expectations. She is a poet and that is what she's meant to do.

Overall, "Because I could not stop" sets the tone for the entire series. It introduces us to a strong-willed, passionate, and talented Emily Dickinson who is fighting against the constraints of her time. Through her poetry, we are given a glimpse into her inner thoughts and struggles, making her relatable even to modern audiences. The first episode is a powerful and emotional start to a series that promises to explore the life and legacy of a truly remarkable woman.