“they rode out on the round dais of the earth which alone was dark and no light to it and which carried their figures and bore them up into the swarming stars so that they rode not under but among them and they rode at once jaunty and circumspect, like thieves newly loosed into that dark electric, like young thieves in a glowing orchard, loosely jacketed against the cold and ten thousand worlds for the choosing.”
Analysis of Quote from Cormac McCarthy's Work
In this quote from Cormac McCarthy's work, the author uses vivid imagery to describe the characters riding out into the darkness of the earth. The description of the characters riding "among" the stars evokes a sense of wonder and adventure. The comparison of the characters to "thieves newly loosed" suggests a sense of rebellion and freedom, while the mention of "ten thousand worlds for the choosing" hints at the unlimited possibilities ahead. Overall, the quote conveys a sense of excitement and exhilaration as the characters embark on their journey.
Modern Relevance
In this passage from Cormac McCarthy's work, the imagery of the characters riding out on the dark earth among the stars evokes a sense of freedom, adventure, and possibility. This theme of seizing opportunity and embracing the unknown can be seen as relevant in today's society, where individuals are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and explore new paths and opportunities. Just as the characters in the passage ride among the stars with a sense of excitement and readiness for whatever lies ahead, we too can approach life with a similar sense of openness and adventure.
Example of Usage
In Cormac McCarthy's writing style, we can see how he beautifully describes a scene with vivid imagery and poetic language. In this excerpt, he portrays the characters riding out into the vast darkness of the earth, surrounded by the twinkling stars above. The comparison of the characters to thieves adds a sense of mystery and adventure to the passage. McCarthy's use of language creates a vivid and captivating image for the readers.
Reflection Questions
After reading this passage by Cormac McCarthy, take a moment to reflect on the imagery and themes presented:
- What emotions or sensations do you experience while reading about the characters riding out into the dark, star-filled expanse?
- How does McCarthy's description of the characters as "thieves" add to the overall tone of the passage?
- Consider the juxtaposition of the darkness of the earth with the brightness of the stars. What do you think this contrast symbolizes?
- How does the imagery of the characters being "loosely jacketed against the cold" contribute to the atmosphere of the scene?
- Reflect on the idea of there being "ten thousand worlds for the choosing." What do you think this suggests about the characters' journey or the possibilities ahead?
Similar quotes
“They heard somewhere in that tenantless night a bell that tolled and ceased where no bell was and they rode out on the round dais of the earth which alone was dark and no light to it and which carried their figures and bore them up into the swarming stars so that they rode not under but among them and they rode at once jaunty and circumspect, like thieves newly loosed in that dark electric, like young thieves in a glowing orchard, loosely jacketed against the cold and ten thousand worlds for the choosing.”
“They rode out along the fenceline and across the open pastureland. The leather creaked in the morning cold. They pushed the horses into a lope. The lights fell away behind them. They rode out on the high prairie where they slowed the horses to a walk and the stars swarmed around them out of the blackness. They heard somewhere in that tenantless night a bell that tolled and ceased where no bell was and they rode out on the round dais of the earth which alone was dark and no light to it and which carried their figures and bore them up into the swarming stars so that they rode not under but among them and they rode at once jaunty and circumspect, like thieves newly loosed in that dark electric, like young thieves in a glowing orchard, loosely jacketed against the cold and ten thousand worlds for the choosing.”
“So rode the squadrons out against the grey steel foe, adding another dash of red to the sunset glow.”
“He rode out in the dark long before daylight and he rode the sun up and he rode it down again. In the oncoming years a terrible drought struck west Texas. He moved on. There was no work in that country anywhere. Pasture gates stood open and sand drifted in the roads and after a few years it was rare to see stock of any kind and he rode on. Days of the world. Years of the world. Till he was old. ”
“But I recall the springtime of the world as though it were yesterday—those days when we rode together to battle, and those nights when we shook the stars loose from the fresh-painted skies!”