Suddenly, darkness descends as the power fails. A surge of frustration compels me to close the book I am engrossed in. As my eyes adjust to the obscurity, I fumble for a candle, its waxy exterior a beacon in the enveloping gloom.
In an era dominated by gadgets and technological advancements, many have abandoned the use of candles and lamps during emergencies, opting instead for rechargeable lamps, solar panels, and LED bulbs. While these conveniences may serve their purpose in industrial settings, I believe they fall short in the domestic sphere. The harsh, artificial illumination emitted by LED bulbs lacks the warmth and allure of traditional light sources.
In his seminal work titled ‘Readings from the Scientists’ (1948), Michael Faraday, a self-taught scientist, penned an enlightening piece entitled ‘The Chemical History of a Candle.’ This profound exposition delves into the intricacies of a burning candle, from its initial ignition to its eventual extinction. It is a testament to the scientific marvels that can be gleaned from everyday phenomena.
During my childhood, some five decades ago, kerosene lamps were ubiquitous in our home, providing illumination during frequent power outages. Their practical design allowed them to be mounted on walls, albeit with the drawback of soot production. Perhaps their extended burn time and affordability contributed to their widespread use.
In contrast, candles offer an unparalleled ease of maintenance. Firmly embedded in their glass holder, they require minimal effort to brighten a room. While many households rely on UPS systems or an array of gadgets to combat darkness, these modern solutions lack the charm and sentimentality evoked by the gentle flicker of candlelight.
Candles come in a myriad of forms, from unscented white pillars to aromatic and therapeutic varieties, catering to diverse preferences. Candle making has evolved into an art form, with bespoke creations crafted for special occasions. Entire volumes have been dedicated to the techniques and intricacies of candle making.
Despite the encroachment of LED lights, which I refer to as ‘toy lights,’ candles and lamps continue to hold their ground. Decades ago, flickering bulbs replaced oil lamps used for religious ceremonies, and now, LED diyas have emerged as the modern alternative. Yet, the kerosene lamp, once a staple in urban households, has faded into obscurity.
I recall an amusing incident from 1995 when the principal of the college where I taught issued a peculiar directive: to sell candles. To our astonishment, all but a handful of teachers embraced this challenge with zeal, engaging in a competitive frenzy that resembled canines vying for their master’s approval!
Candles and lamps possess a profound symbolic significance. Igniting a candle represents the revival of hope, the dissemination of knowledge, and the contemplation of life itself. Poets like G.M. Hopkins have employed the candle as a metaphor for faith, while Elton John likened Marilyn Monroe to a ‘candle in the wind.’ Others, like myself, might argue that she personified the very essence of the wind, an untamed and captivating force.
Describing the act of lighting a candle is a task that eludes me. As the flame gradually intensifies, it illuminates a cozy radius, casting a gentle glow upon the surrounding walls. It is an experience that transcends mere description, requiring the eloquence of poetry to capture its full essence.
In bygone eras, homes often featured dedicated candle niches in their walls. However, in modern dwellings, such niches are reserved for luxury homes adorned with chandeliers and other ostentatious lighting fixtures. Why have we, the common citizens, abandoned this practice of creating candle niches in our own homes?
Perhaps there is an element of Miniver Cheevy within my generation, a yearning for a simpler time when candles provided both illumination and a sense of tranquility.
