Cory and Topanga are almost calling it quits after fifteen years of childhood romance, but a scene at the end of the episode finds them in front of this painting and just before Cory tells her that he has learned their relationship is more than a childhood romance and a masterpiece and gets all gushy, she tells Cory this about the painting, "God is protecting the people in this little town. They live there lives and they come out of their houses and they see the sky. And they know God’s protection and love. And that everything will be alright."
There is speculation that around the same time Van Gogh painted "Starry Night" he was finding religion and that possibly the 11 stars in the painting are representative of the stars mentioned in Genesis 37:9. There is much discussion on its astronomical significance. Commentary can be found regarding his thought processes, and why he would paint this as he was in the asylum at Saint-Rémy and his behavior was reportedly quite erratic. There are fascinating theories and beautiful insights. But for me, it's the simplicity that any person can take any of these ideas to make this image of pure brilliance their own.
I perceive the ominous foreground and recognize its possible threat, but am much more cognizant of the little chapel which leads my thoughts to God, then a realization that it is a peaceful night and at this point I have to agree with Topanga Lawrence:
"God is protecting the people in this little town. They live there lives and they come out of their houses and they see the sky. And they know God’s protection and love. And that everything will be alright."
