Sinclair Ross's Praire Isolation by Symbolism: "The Lamp at Noon"

"The Lamp at Noon" is a short story that focuses on the reality of the desiccated, secluded, and expansive prairies. Set on the haunting Canadian prairies, weather emulates the emotions of Ellen, a housewife desperate for freedom of the dustbowl lifestyle. The authority of wind and dust seem to taunt Ellen and her husband, Paul, into desperation. Ross applies symbolism across the pages of "The Lamp at Noon" to inform the reader of the lonely …

…wife. Crying winds, lonely moments, and climatic symbolism are features of both short stories, which implies Ross's message of the prairies - the isolation will keep one frantic for freedom. The effect of domestic light, fogging dust and raging wind has created a foundation for the reader of "The Lamp at Noon" to base conclusions of the prairie lifestyle. Through these three significant symbols Ross has created a tempest of emotion between two isolated personalities.