metaphor
I think what Pound could be referring to is an atmospheric phenomenon sometimes called 'the green flash' - a very small, very quick flicker of green you see on the horizon at the instant the sun sets in the sea (if you blink you miss it - and it certainly doesn't colour the sky green). It's rare, but I have seen it so I know it exists! Looking at the Canto, I think he's looking for a metaphor to express impermanence, perhaps of beauty? power?
|