“There was a game she had played with Sophie in the long hallways of Edgewood, where she and Sophie would stand as far apart as was possible to get and still see eachother. Then they would walk slowly and deliberately, looking always each at the other's face. They kept on, at the same pace, not laughing or trying not to, till their noses touched. It was like this with Smokey, though he had started from far off, too far to be seen, coming from the City – no farther, out there where she had never been, far away, walking towards her.”
Explore This Quote Further
Quote Analysis
In this passage from John Crowley's work, the author uses the metaphor of a childhood game to capture the anticipation and excitement felt by the character as Smokey approaches her. The imagery of two individuals slowly walking towards each other until their noses touch is both intimate and playful, reflecting the sense of connection and closeness between the characters. This description not only conveys the physical proximity between Smokey and the character but also hints at a deeper emotional bond that is forming. The use of this nostalgic game as a comparison adds a layer of innocence and sweetness to the scene, highlighting the joy and anticipation of reuniting with a loved one.
Modern Relevance
In this passage from John Crowley's novel, the theme of connection and anticipation is highlighted through a simple yet evocative game played by the characters. This idea of slowly moving towards one another until they finally meet mirrors the way relationships and connections develop in life. The patience and focus required in the game can be seen as a metaphor for the effort and attention necessary to build meaningful relationships and bridges between individuals, even in today's fast-paced and distracted world.
Example of Usage
There was a game she had played with Sophie in the long hallways of Edgewood, where she and Sophie would stand as far apart as was possible to get and still see each other. Then they would walk slowly and deliberately, looking always at each other's face. They kept on, at the same pace, not laughing or trying not to, till their noses touched. It was like this with Smokey, though he had started from far off, too far to be seen, coming from the City – no farther, out there where she had never been, far away, walking towards her. - John Crowley
Reflection Questions
After reading this passage, consider the following questions for deeper reflection: 1. What do you think the game of walking towards each other until their noses touch symbolizes in the context of the story? 2. How does the imagery of walking towards each other from a distance evoke a sense of anticipation and connection? 3. How is the theme of distance and closeness explored through this passage? 4. In what ways does the passage evoke a sense of longing and yearning for connection? 5. How does the use of repetition and slow pace contribute to the mood and tone of the passage?
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