I found this rather obscure poem by William Golding (author of
Lord of the Flies) and feel that it hides a great deal of
meaning and symbolism. After all, Golding was known for being
one of the most symbolic writers of all time. This one makes you
think, but they're always better that way. I wonder what the two
names about halfway down symbolize? What is he trying to say
about life and man's nature? The Light Bulb Man In a little-
known town, On a little-known street, A man continued to frown,
Unable to reach that unreachable feat. You see, this man
manufactured light. Yet as a light bulb maker never should, He
had only illuminated his plight; Not one photon had his eyes
withstood. Thus it was his timeless quest-- Without end, without
mend. His vision, while he passed inevitably from East to West,
Became of a mountain, on the ground condemned. Then one day came
Withrow, And Derrick shortly after. In no time at all their
bulbs came aglow; But in light’s shadow there is no mirthful
laughter. Yet with a shrug of