The Triumph of Life

Light is the central symbol of the poem and takes on several forms. In the first section of the poem, the “birth / of light” (Line 6-7) at sunrise represents a beginning. It also develops the theme of The Power of Nature. The “icy cold [...] light” (Line 78) of the chariot represents the power of life. This blinding light can compete with the sun’s light, placing the power of the visionary near to the power of nature. Light of the sun and the chariot is associated with truth. Rousseau also describes a mysterious “shape all light” (Line 352). It is characterized as female and holding a crystal glass, which refracts light. However, it is not as powerful as the chariot’s “light’s severe excess” (Line 424). While the power of life, symbolized in its chariot’s radiance, can compete with the power of nature, the “shape all light” (Line 352) is a less powerful force than both life and nature:

‘And the fair shape waned in the coming light

As veil by veil the silent splendour drops

From Lucifer, amid the chrysolite

‘Of sunrise (Lines 412-15).

This references the imagery of Lucifer as the Light-Bearer or morning star. There are also the multiple references to Iris (Line 440), which is a rainbow, or a refraction of light.