light and shadow; ups and downs; bright side and dark side
Idiomatic expression referring to the dual nature of something: its positive and negative aspects, successes and failures, or glory and shame. Often used in discussions of life, careers, or historical events.
His life had its ups and downs.
This movie depicts the bright side and dark side of success.
Compound of 光 (light) and 影 (shadow), connected by と (and). The literal meaning 'light and shadow' is extended metaphorically to represent the contrasting aspects of a situation.