Essentially this sonnet is looking at truth and beauty which exists beyond the superficial. This inner truth is represented by the 'sweet odour' or scent of the rose.

As a theme in a series of paintings, I have been exploring the question of how we may recognise truth and what are the measurments of truth. In a sense, the seeking of inner truth is as difficult as navigating the labyrinth. There are no accurate external monitors (or clews) to guide us. And there are many aspects of the Minotaur to confront.

The nautilus shell both reflects the labyrinthine journey and references Daedalus, the creator of the Cretan labyrinth. The moth imagery refers to the way that moths seem to seek the sun and warmth with an internal drive which also sometimes leads to destruction in flames.

However, I feel that the series mainly is looking at the positive aspects of this search and the development of an inner understanding and the strength to recognise what is the truth within our selves.