I would say that the city is busy, populous, modern, yet devoid of humanity, the author seems to suggest. "Clanging" evokes a loud sound, coming, perhaps, from a streetcar, or a crowded street, whereas "glaring" evokes an intense, almost blinding, light, which might come from the marquee of a theater or the window of a fancy store. Yet, this abundance of light, the author ponders, which could seemingly equal progress, prosperity, and happiness, is bringing people neither joy nor pride or freedom. Hence her relief when she leaves the city behind and arrives to the familiarity and the humanity of her home.