The Story Behind the Tile:
“Like this,” the silhouette said, gently lifting the light toward the sky. The smaller one to the left looked on, taking cues from the arms delicately holding the glowing lantern up high, set to release. This symbol of remembrance, of love lifted up over the water, ready to ascend to the heavens and return to the earth, with its flame finished, but its significance still burning bright. These lights that we ignite in our life are more than little flames. They are the emblems of who and what guide us in our journey by helping us to remember the past, to seize the present, and to create the future.
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Why is the story on the sides of ‘Guiding Light’ written so differently? This story is a section of E.E. Cummings’ #38 of 73 poems. Whereas many have shortened the verse, Houston chose to keep the story as written: syntax, punctuation, and all. The rich language hidden within cummings’ poetry is profound and layered. It is at once a celebration, a remembrance, an appreciation, a deep rooted love. Pinning down a single meaning to this poem is inconceivable, as it can mean so much to each reader.
Tile Quote:
Yours is the light by which my spirit's born: yours is the darkness of soul's return- you are my sun, my moon, and all my stars. -E.E. Cummings
Details and Demensions:
Made by hand with USA-sourced copper, glass enamel, and a custom wood box frame.
5¼" x 8½" x 1¾" - akin to the size of a novel.