And then the searchlight which had been turned on the world was turned off again and never for one moment since has there been any light that’s stronger than this – kitchen – candle.
– Tennessee Williams
A Streetcar Named Desire, Scene 6. Using a searchlight metaphor, Blanche explains to Mitch about the terrible impact the tragedy of her husband’s suicide has had on her. Despite her disgust at Allan’s homosexual affair, Blanche loved him deeply. The searchlight symbolizes the love that is gone from Blanche’s world with the only light left one of ugly truths and reality.