Pure Treasure
Macbeth
The Enigmatic Beauty of 'Pure Treasure'
Macbeth's song 'Pure Treasure' delves into the ethereal and almost mystical nature of something incredibly rare and precious. The lyrics describe this 'pure treasure' as a 'strange fascinating light' that doesn't shine but instead emits a fragrance like a flower. This metaphor suggests that the treasure's value isn't in its obvious brilliance but in its subtle, pervasive beauty. The imagery of a flower growing 'everywhere and somewhere' adds to the sense of ubiquity and mystery, implying that this treasure is both omnipresent and elusive.
The chorus likens this treasure to a 'pearl of dew' and an 'innocent diadem of a divine crown,' evoking purity, innocence, and divinity. These comparisons elevate the treasure to a celestial level, suggesting that it is something almost otherworldly. The use of 'pearl of dew' also conveys a sense of fragility and transience, as dew is something that appears briefly and then vanishes. This could imply that the treasure is not only rare but also fleeting, making it even more precious.
The final stanza adds another layer of mystique by giving the treasure a name 'of a wind with an enchanted breath' and likening it to 'the flap of an angel's wings.' These descriptions imbue the treasure with a sense of movement and life, as if it is something living and breathing. The recurring imagery of a flower growing 'everywhere and somewhere' reinforces the idea that this treasure is both accessible and hidden, a paradox that makes it all the more intriguing. Through these rich metaphors and vivid imagery, Macbeth crafts a song that celebrates the beauty of the intangible and the elusive, inviting listeners to ponder the nature of true treasure.