MDMD(0): Ampersand, 2nd order approximation

[jporter]

The scholars of the list having thoroughly consigned my first ampersand
interpretation to the realm of Munchausenoid confabulation, and rightly so,
since obviously I don't know the difference between a sameck and a
sigmoidoscope, being quite profitably perturbed, here's my second order
approximation:

Feeling confident that I'm *on* to something with my interpretation of the
Mason, Dixon and the Rev relationship in the image of an Argand Burner (see
the Eso & Exo post, above), I launch-

If the cylindrical *wick* of an Argand Burner, or lamp, sitting between the
concentric inner and outer tubes (Mason & Dixon) can be seen as a symbol
for Wicks, who is illuminating, or telling this tale, then the cover is
another rep of that relationship. and the ampersand joining son Et xon,
would be Wicks again. The Rev, with a tongue- this time of flame- to
enlighten us. Notice how he "flirts" with Tenebrae (darkness) early on.

>From the outset we are told that the Rev may stay only for as long as he
continues to entertain (enlighten) the children, i.e., his time- like the
oil in an Argand Lamp- is limited. How long can he stay "lit"? The
comparison is interesting because of the link made between energy supplies
(and all resources) and the happiness of this land's children.

The Argand Lamp, while ten times brighter than its predecessors, was also
known to consume fuel more rapidly. The statements of Mason's children at
the end, in the waning light of the novel, could be a note of sadness.

jody