The image here is of evening arriving like a staircase made of roses, each step redder or softer than the last. The speaker sees the sunset as a path connecting the earth to the enormous dark sky, and it feels gentle rather than sad. Into that path, our thoughts or daydreams can fold their wings and rest. Instead of flying aimlessly, they can climb those long bands of violet and pink light, moving upward until they reach a deep blue pool of night and touch its starry edge. The feeling is quiet, dreamy, and a little hushed, as though the end of the day invites us to stop worrying and let our minds wander toward something vast and calm. The mood is one of wonder and peace.
Steps of Rose — Summary
Steps of rose On rosier steps; Thus, evening Builds her staircase Between sunset And the infinite roof of space.
So our fancies May fold their wings, And walk on gleams Of unending purple and pink, Up to the blue pool . . . And drink from its starry rim.