NPPR: Commentary Line 137 Lemniscate

[sZ]

>>> Accomplishing a figure-eight in wet sand on a bicycle is a rigorous test
of
> balance and steering control while changing directions. Stands in stark
> contrast to Shade's awkwardness.
>
Yes, assuming this figure has been printed in the sand by one bicyclist.<<<

Since the bicycle tires are 'nonchalantly deft,' it is likely the reference
is to a skilled cyclist, but the contrast between Shade's lame cloutishness
and lemniscate deftness is clear regardless.

Also note the hourglass (and sand again) is also lemniscate in shape, esp.
a la the Lemniscate of Gerone.

Plus, see the lemniscate/infinity sign atop The Magician (Magus) in the
Tarot:
http://www.aeclectic.net/tarot/riderwaite/ridmage.jpg

Elemental Rulership: Gold
Planetary Rulership: Mercury
Hebrew Letter: Beth
Hebrew Translation: House
Numerological Value: 1

Significance of Rulerships
Gold is symbolic of the alchemist, the original magician. It also represents
material success through perseverance, adaptability, and determination. It
is the symbol of achievement.

Planetary Rulership is given to Mercury, messenger of the Gods. Mercury uses
the energy of the golden sun to spread the will and wisdom of the gods to
the universe as a whole. Therefore, the planetary relationship of Mercury is
symbolic of the glyph's essence, communication.

The Hebrew Letter is Beth, which translates to liouse. There is a touch of
the alchemical here once again, for Beth is symbolic of the transformation
of what was once considered "magic" into today's "science."

Beth also represents the opposites, Life and Death; another syrnbol of
metamorphosis and transformation.

The Numerological value is 1. One is the manifestation of what was
previously formless. It is symbolic of new beginnings, decisions, and
independence. It represents the conscious mind focusing on the ideas and
intuitions found in The Fool and making them real.

The Magus is a card of duality, representing both the transformation and
regeneration of Life to Death, and Death to Life. It also represents the
fine line dividing white magic from black magic. This is a power card, and
the power can be used in either a self-serving manner, or one in service to
the All. In order for The Magus to achieve his aims, there must be constant
awareness and self-examination. This is the card of one who is able to
discriminate between various realities and fantasies; between various points
of view, and yet retain his sense of humor at life in general.
_______________________________________________________

Then the poem moves on to a clockwork toy, the age 11, and a single wheeled
barrow.
A cranial sunburst ensues, and Shadeboy becomes unstuck in time.