“Vampires do breathe, by the way, but their chests don't move like humans'. Have you ever lain in the arms of your sweetheart and tried to match your breathing to his, or hers? You do it automatically. Your brain only gets involved if your body is having trouble. Fortunately there was nothing about this situation that was like being in the arms of a sweetheart except that I was leaning against someone's naked chest. I could no more have breathed with him than I could have ignited gasoline and shot exhaust out my butt because I was sitting in the passenger seat of a car.”
Quote Analysis
In this quote, Robin McKinley uses a humorous analogy to describe the differences between vampires and humans. By comparing the act of matching breathing with a sweetheart to breathing with a vampire, McKinley highlights the unnatural and impossible nature of the latter. The use of humor in this comparison adds a light-hearted tone to the otherwise eerie and supernatural concept of vampires. This quote showcases McKinley's ability to infuse her writing with wit and cleverness, making her work both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Modern Relevance
In this quote from Robin McKinley, the unique nature of vampires' breathing is highlighted in a humorous and relatable way. The comparison between the automatic synchronization of breathing with a loved one and the impossibility of doing so with a vampire adds a fun twist to the popular vampire lore. This quote also touches on the idea of trying to fit in or adapt to a situation that is inherently different from what we are used to. In today's world, where we are constantly faced with new challenges and changes, this quote serves as a reminder to embrace the uniqueness of each situation and find humor in the absurdity of trying to fit in where we clearly do not belong.
Quote from Robin McKinley
In this quote, Robin McKinley uses vivid imagery to explain the differences between vampires and humans in regards to breathing. The comparison between breathing with a sweetheart and trying to breathe with a vampire adds a humorous element to the description.
Reflection Questions:
In this passage, the narrator discusses the unique breathing patterns of vampires compared to humans. Reflect on the following questions:
- Have you ever tried to match your breathing to someone else's, either consciously or subconsciously? How did it feel and what was the significance to you?
- How does the imagery of breathing with a sweetheart contrast with the situation described in the passage? What emotions or feelings does each scenario evoke for you?
- Consider the idea of physical intimacy and connection through breathing. How does this concept play out in different relationships in your life?
- Reflect on the humorous analogy of igniting gasoline and shooting exhaust out your butt. How does humor help convey the narrator's sense of discomfort or awkwardness in this situation?
- How does this passage challenge traditional romantic tropes and expectations of physical closeness? Does it offer a different perspective on intimacy and connection?
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