What does the black mass of cloud symbolize- the confused and doubtful sound of voices in young Goodman brown?

In Nathaniel Hawthorne's "Young Goodman Brown," the black mass of cloud symbolizes the pervasive presence of evil and moral ambiguity that shrouds the protagonist's journey into the forest. It represents the confusion and doubt that emerge as Goodman Brown confronts the reality of human nature and the potential for wickedness within himself and others. This darkness mirrors the conflicting voices he hears, reflecting his inner turmoil and the struggle between faith and disillusionment. Ultimately, the cloud serves as a powerful metaphor for the loss of innocence and the challenge of grappling with one's beliefs.