A fire can make an dawn, but why not wait for daybreak? A volcano lights, but dawn lights up even better. Combeferre perhaps preferred the whiteness of the beautiful to the flambony of the sublime.
In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," the quote reflects on the contrasting nature of fire and dawn. It suggests that while a fire can illuminate the night, the natural beauty of dawn brings a more profound light, implying that waiting for natural cycles can yield better outcomes than seeking quick, artificial solutions. This underscores the value of patience and appreciation for the beauty of the world around us.
Furthermore, the mention of Combeferre's preference for the serene whiteness of dawn over the fiery displays of a volcano highlights a deeper appreciation for subtler, more genuine experiences. This sentiment advocates for recognizing and valuing the beautiful moments in life that may not be as dramatic but are more enduring and fulfilling. It emphasizes the idea that true beauty often lies in simplicity rather than in ostentatious displays.
