Things that have lost their power
A boat left dry on the sand at low tide. A large tree blown down in a storm, lying with its roots in the air. A woman who has taken off her wig, and is combing what remains. A man of importance who is now old, and whose visitors no longer come.
Things that give a clean feeling
An earthen cup. A new metal bowl. Water as one throws it into a vessel. A rush mat, fresh and unmarked.