“and they shook hands, hit each other on theshoulder, then there was forty feet of distance between them andnothing to do but drive away in opposite directions. Within a mileEnnis felt like someone was pulling his guts out hand over hand ayard at a time. He stopped at the side of the road and, in the whirlingnew snow, tried to puke but nothing came up. He felt about as bad ashe ever had and it took a long time for the feeling to wear off.”
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Quote Analysis
Annie Proulx’s quote paints a vivid picture of emotional turmoil and physical discomfort experienced by the character Ennis as he part ways with someone significant. The imagery evokes a sense of loss and internal struggle that resonates beyond the surface of a simple farewell.
The opening line, “and they shook hands, hit each other on the shoulder,” suggests a moment of camaraderie and connection between the two characters. The friendly gestures symbolize a bond that is now being severed, setting an emotional tone that contrasts sharply with the ensuing distance. The act of driving away “in opposite directions” emphasizes the finality of their separation and the inevitable loneliness that follows.
The physical reaction of Ennis—“felt like someone was pulling his guts out hand over hand a yard at a time”—uses visceral imagery to convey deep emotional pain. This metaphorical expression indicates that the parting is not just an emotional experience but one that affects him physically as well. The gut-wrenching sensation serves as a powerful reminder of the intensity of his feelings and the severity of his loss.
Ennis’s inability to purge his feelings—“tried to puke but nothing came up”—highlights his emotional distress. The action of trying to vomit symbolizes an attempt to rid himself of this unbearable pain, but the failure to do so suggests that the feelings are too profound to be expelled. The phrase “he felt about as bad as he ever had” encapsulates the depth of his sorrow, while the subsequent mention of it taking “a long time for the feeling to wear off” reinforces the idea that some emotional wounds leave lasting scars.
In conclusion, this quote encapsulates the themes of separation, emotional pain, and the complexity of human relationships. Proulx’s evocative language draws the reader into Ennis's experience, allowing them to empathize with his heart-wrenching farewell. The combination of physical and emotional imagery creates a poignant reflection on love and loss that lingers long after the characters have parted ways.
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