Symbol of light in “Paternal lantern” by Roman Fedoriv

Abstract

The paper deals with the novel “Paternal Lantern” by Roman Fedoriv, namely with the symbolic meanings the light acquires according to its material representation in the work. The writer interprets this symbol, common for the cultures of the whole world, in a rather original way. In the novel, the sunlight is associated with the human internal strength and power of nature; it is a precondition for life as well as evidence of righteous existence on earth. The sunset symbolizes approaching death and thereby manifests the man’s need to rethink his way of life. The fire is a source of light and heat, and even, in accordance with ancestral beliefs, an abode of the deity; therefore it is frequently treated as a guarantee of family’s happiness and longevity, as a patron of the house. The fire has the power to clear evil and passions out; however, it also symbolizes love, which needs care not less than a bonfire. The ambivalence of the fire, namely the fire of life and the one of death, caused by its origin and destination, represents opposite principles of the universe. The ‘free’ fire, lit in the open air due to the community’s will, resembles the lantern of Halychyna land for the novel’s characters. Hidden in the depths of human being, the outbursts of anger, the experience of happiness and joy, and still untapped potential, which makes a person capable of making great things, are also associated with fire. The candle symbolizing “light that enlightens everyone” accompanies characters’ good thoughts and actions, it can be a prophetic sign or guide to the afterlife. The function of ‘lantern’ in the novel is also performed by the things related not to the physical light but the shine of life, insight, and true understanding. These are home (native land), a righteous person, art and texts, minstrels, scholars and teachers that bring enlightenment to the people, help them search for truth and pass it on to the next generations leaving the trace of light in their descendants’ memory.