Candles and the moon are considered "liars" because they fail to provide a clear, genuine, and truthful reflection, unlike surfaces such as a lake or a mirror. They obscure or distort the true image, leading to an unreliable depiction.
Understanding the Deception
The perception of candles and the moon as liars stems from their inability to render a faithful representation of what is being reflected. This characteristic contrasts sharply with mediums that offer genuine clarity:
- Lack of Clear Image: Unlike a still lake or a polished mirror that presents a distinct and sharp image, the light from candles and the moon tends to scatter or diffuse, preventing a clear and precise reflection. The illumination they provide is often too dim, flickering, or ambient to produce a well-defined visual.
- Absence of Genuine Truthfulness: Because they do not offer a clear image, they are perceived as not being genuinely truthful. The reflections they produce are indistinct and therefore not trustworthy representations of reality.
- Inconsistent Reflection Quality: Someone looking to candles or the moon for a reflection, perhaps hoping to see their own image clearly, will be disappointed. They do not yield the same truthful and accurate reflection that one would readily observe in a calm body of water or a reflective glass surface.
Here's a comparison to highlight the difference in their reflective qualities:
| Reflective Medium | Image Clarity | Truthfulness | Reflective Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake / Mirror | Clear, distinct | Genuine | Provides truthful reflection |
| Candles / Moon | Unclear, indistinct | Not genuine | Does not provide truthful reflection |
In essence, their "lie" is not malicious but rather a fundamental limitation in their ability to provide a sharp, dependable, and honest visual representation. They cast light, but not in a way that facilitates accurate self-reflection or clear depiction of external objects.
