He was a 16th century christian mystic who authored the Dark Night of the Soul. It's commonly referenced concept for a dark (depressing, fearful, lonely, etc) period one must go to attain some necessary personal rebirth.
Just a thought, from which you add some more meanings if you like.
I am surprised no one has mentioned St. John of the Cross.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_John_of_the_Cross
He was a 16th century christian mystic who authored the Dark Night of the Soul. It's commonly referenced concept for a dark (depressing, fearful, lonely, etc) period one must go to attain some necessary personal rebirth.
Just a thought, from which you add some more meanings if you like.