Final answer:
Candles in literature often symbolize enlightenment, transience, hope, or mourning, depending on their use in the narrative. They can indicate knowledge, the passage of time, reverence, or the presence of the divine in religious and mystical contexts.
Step-by-step explanation:
In literature, candles symbolize various concepts depending on the context in which they are used. They may represent enlightenment as they bring light to darkness, signifying knowledge, wisdom, or even a revelation. Candles may also symbolize transience and the passage of time, evidenced by their melting wax and finite flame, as seen in the poem 'First Fig' which suggests the idea of burning brightly but not lasting long. The flickering of a candle's flame can denote uncertainty or the fragility of life, while the act of lighting a candle can be a symbol of hope, a guiding presence, or a memorial for the deceased. In some religious and mystical contexts, such as the Mysteries of Isis, candles or torches might represent a divine aspect or a connection to the sacred, with references to solar symbolism and the presence of light in rituals. During mourning periods, like in the description provided by Steven, candles accompany symbols of grief. The candle placed on the floor in the passage involving Deborah points to an intimate or solemn atmosphere. Furthermore, in the scene describing the desolate Christmas tree with burnt-down candle-ends, the symbolism suggests a loss of festivity and joy, perhaps indicating a broader thematic element of decay or the end of a period of happiness.