Metaphorical Meaning:
* The "dark night of the soul" is a term used to describe a period of intense spiritual, emotional, or psychological distress. It's a time of profound questioning, doubt, and even despair.
* Three in the morning: This time represents the darkest hour, both literally and figuratively. It's a time when shadows are longest, and anxieties and fears can be most intense.
* Day after day: This signifies the persistent nature of the darkness. It's not a one-time event, but a prolonged experience.
Interpretation:
This phrase paints a vivid picture of the experience of a dark night of the soul. It suggests that:
* The suffering is profound and pervasive: The darkness feels inescapable, like the darkness of early morning that seems to last forever.
* Hope feels distant: The darkest hour is before the dawn, and the suffering feels endless.
* The journey is arduous: The darkness is not a quick fix, but something one must endure day after day.
It's important to note:
* This is not a literal statement about time: The experience is metaphorical, and the specific time of 3 AM is chosen for its symbolic value.
* The "dark night of the soul" is a normal part of life for many people: While it can be intensely painful, it can also be a time of profound growth and transformation.
Overall, the phrase captures the feeling of intense despair and hopelessness that can accompany a dark night of the soul. It's a poignant way to express the experience of being lost in darkness without any clear path forward.