Re: Swan symbolism in literature
Posted by Tracy on July 2, 2001 at 14:19:19:
In reply to: Swan symbolism in literature posted by Alissa on July 1, 2001 at 16:03:55:
: In classical literature, swans are a symbol of fidelity as they are: thought to mate for life with their chosen one. Also, Yeats' poem
: Leda and the Swan is thought to have several interpretations -- the
: obvious one is the myth of Leda being sexually overcome by a God
: (Zeus?) in the form of swan. More subtle interpretations point to
: political statements such as the expected Victorian
: woman's "submissive" qualities even in the face of danger, or even
a
: woman being overcome by the sexual/spiritual aspect within herself.
: Also, Yeats' doomed relationship with his unrequited paramour Maud
: Gonne certainly had an influence on the sonnet as well.
:
: If Leda's story intrigues you, check out Michelangelo's painting of
: the legend (whew! didn't leave much to the imagination there) or
: Leonardo da Vinci's tamer version of the same myth.
:
: (Who knew my classical education would come to play in the Mehndi
: world? What fun I actually retained something from all those years
of
: college tuition money spent!)
:
: Hope any of this helps and congratulations to you both!
: Namaste,
: Alissa
Dear Alissa,
Thank you so much for the history. I really appreciate everyone
providing input on this. Catherine e-mailed me directly with some
information as well. I hope to find some inspiring designs for my
wedding mehndi (I am not going all out - probably some small simple
designs onmy hands and wrists and possibly on my feet and ankles).
Thanks again!
Tracy
Follow Ups
- most welcome! (n/t)
Alissa 15:04:32 7/2/2001
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