[kurcfeld]

That's pretty much it... after a few sputterings like a lightbulb going out, my screen went almost totally dark. I can just make out the shadowy outlines of files on the desktop. Tried restarting. Any ideas?

[peeb]

Sounds like it is the lamp. Not sure how much the repair will cost, but you can use an external monitor as a temporary measure.

[Gish]

Definitely the bulb behind the screen. You will want to try iFixit: iPod, iBook, & PowerBook Parts and Accessories .

[passmaster16]

Could be the bulb but could also be the power inverter. I had that issue with a G3 iBook and it was about $140 to send away to get fixed.