05-08-2012, 02:32 PM
Geoff,
The way I read it (taking the singular) was a "golden band" was flying without benefit of wing, or head, et al. Partially, I think for me they (wasps) are not literally "golden" but yellow, so golden for me is at least hyperbole. Also golden carries the connotation of metallic, and "golden band" refers often to a wedding ring. All that happens for me with the plural is that I see many single bands of gold. But I think it is mainly about gold not transposing to yellow for me. To be golden means to possess the attributes of gold, to be yellow is to simply be that color. I'm willing to admit I am in the minority here. I'll get back on this when I have the time and mental energy to think clearly about the rest.
Dale
The way I read it (taking the singular) was a "golden band" was flying without benefit of wing, or head, et al. Partially, I think for me they (wasps) are not literally "golden" but yellow, so golden for me is at least hyperbole. Also golden carries the connotation of metallic, and "golden band" refers often to a wedding ring. All that happens for me with the plural is that I see many single bands of gold. But I think it is mainly about gold not transposing to yellow for me. To be golden means to possess the attributes of gold, to be yellow is to simply be that color. I'm willing to admit I am in the minority here. I'll get back on this when I have the time and mental energy to think clearly about the rest.
Dale
How long after picking up the brush, the first masterpiece?
The goal is not to obfuscate that which is clear, but make clear that which isn't.
The goal is not to obfuscate that which is clear, but make clear that which isn't.