Final answer:
The line "And ignorance is / A lost paradise" alludes to the blissful state of unawareness, where one can perceive beauty without recognizing its negative implications. It ties into the broader themes of subjective beauty and the allure of simpler understandings, as reflected in the works of Wordsworth and Keller.
Step-by-step explanation:
The line "And ignorance is / A lost paradise" suggests that there is a certain bliss associated with not knowing or understanding the full extent of a situation. Much like the ribbons that appear beautiful even though they represent pollution, and the flames that look "gorgeous" to believers despite being destructive, the speaker alludes to a state where a lack of knowledge or awareness allows one to see beauty without the burden of its consequences. This notion echoes the theme of subjective beauty and the universal ability to perceive it, regardless of the underpinning harm or ugliness. Moreover, it parallels Wordsworth's longing for a simpler, more connected life with nature and Keller's sense of being lost in fog before gaining literacy, underscoring the sometimes comforting but potentially limiting experience of not knowing or understanding.