SPACE ASPECTS
In this part of the paper, I will talk about space aspects and I will try to explain where is the action of the text situated.
The action of “The Luminous Dome” takes place in an open space, in the nature, in a charmed place, with a river whose “water is icy cold but very pleasant, almost relaxing” and where, beyond the river, there is a strange luminous dome which hangs in the night.
The place is enriched with gardens “Through gardens and shadowy glens”, trees and flowers, “Mingled scents of many trees and flowers wander on the night breeze”, a forest “… rises from a bend in the river to the long shadows of a beech forest”,beast and birds “Beast and birds slept or hunted in the forest, much like any night”.
There is also a high wall, built of stone, netted with ivy, overhanging near the top, a lot of torches and an “occupied tower”. In this place there are “mortals everywhere”, even the woman is mortal.
"First moon of autumn is waning. But still it weaves a path on the swift and noisy waters. Beyond the river, a strange luminous dome hangs in the night. Its glittering surface isn't the work of your own people. But surely it cannot be the crude work of mortals. The fragrant woodland beckons to you with night secrets. But none could be more wondrous than the glowing dome across the river.
Through pathed gardens and shadowy glens, you make your way back to the high wall of stone which you crossed in the clean hour after dusk. Over many streams, by wooden bridge and leaping stone to stone, you retrace your steps. But soon, nothing is familiar. It is as if the very land has changed.
You are standing on a floor of many-colored tile. It chills your bare feet but is very beautiful. An exquisitely carved rail runs around three sides of the porch. A wall of marble towers above you; at it's base a broad archway. Torches burn in glittering stanchions on the rail. Their glow returns like starlight from the quiet water below. But the sky is absolutely black.
The wall is built of stone, netted with ivy, and overhanging near the top. You climb easily over the wall and drop down the far side.
The sounds and smells of the night forest are comfortable and familiar. It is almost like waking from a dream".