Explain how the following characters play against one another Clarisse - Mildred

Clarisse represents enlightenment and hope while Mildred represents ignorance and futility. There is the motif of darkness and light personified by each character. Clarisse is a light of enlightenment while Mildred suffers the darkness of the state and the status quo. Clarisse is young and vibrant while Mildred feels old and tired.