We see them as centerpieces in elegant dinner settings. They are usually made of twisted wrought iron although a lot of beautiful candelabra are carved from wood or baked from clay. They may hold one or more candles. The candelabra as we know it today is a decorative item. They are rarely used as a lighting implement.

When I see the word candelabra, I invariably think of the flashy and flamboyant concert pianist who made his trademark with his glittery suits and candelabras that were always on top of his piano. Liberace plays the piano very well but music critics were generally harsh in their assessment of his piano playing. This was because his music had to be accompanied with entertaining tricks. He was also censured for his lack of respect to the composers whose music he played. When it is too difficult, he simplifies it. When it is too simple, he complicates it.