“He won every game, yet she hardly noticed. As long as she hit the ball, it resulted in shameless bragging. When she missed - well, even the fires of Hell couldn't compare to the rage that burst from her mouth. He couldn't remember a time when he'd laugh so hard.”
In this quote from Sarah J. Maas, the author captures the competitive dynamics between two characters. The contrast between the nonchalant attitude of one character towards winning and the intense emotions of the other character when losing is highlighted. This creates a humorous situation that showcases the complexity of human emotions and relationships. The use of vivid language, such as "shameless bragging" and "rage that burst from her mouth," emphasizes the intensity of the characters' reactions, adding depth to the storytelling.
In this excerpt from Sarah J. Maas's writing, the dynamic between winning and losing in a game is highlighted through the characters' reactions. This portrays a common theme of competitiveness and how it can affect relationships in different contexts.
In today's society, the pressure to constantly be the best can often overshadow the joy of simply participating or improving. The obsession with winning at all costs can lead to strained relationships and toxic behavior, similar to the character's intense reactions in the passage. It serves as a reminder to prioritize sportsmanship and the enjoyment of the game rather than focusing solely on the outcome.
“He won every game, yet she hardly noticed. As long as she hit the ball, it resulted in shameless bragging. When she missed - well, even the fires of Hell couldn't compare to the rage that burst from her mouth. He couldn't remember a time when he'd laugh so hard.” - Sarah J. Maas
When reflecting on this passage, consider the dynamics between the characters and how their different attitudes towards winning and losing impact their relationship. Think about the role of competition and how it can both bring people together and drive them apart. Reflect on the power of humor in diffusing tense situations and bringing people closer together. How do the emotions displayed in this passage reflect deeper issues within the characters' personalities and relationships?
“Nor had she missed when they zigzagged between levels, even though the building was a standard grid of hallways and stairwells. As if she'd lose her bearings that easily.She might have been insulted if he wasn't trying so hard.”
“Well, he was certainly desirable-as desirable as Sam, maybe. Sam-when had she ever thought of him as desirable? He'd laugh until he died if ever knew she thought of him like that.”
“He suddenly felt the urge to kiss her-hard- upon the mouth. But this- what he felt, it could never be real. Because once the ball was over, she would go back to being an assassin, and he would still be a prince. Dorian swallowed hard. For tonight, though...He held her closer. Everyone transformed into mere shadows on the wall.”
“He couldn't be dead. Not from the dagger, or those dozen pirates, or from the catapult. No, Sam couldn't be so stupid that he'd get himself killed. She'd... she'd... Well she'd kill him if he was dead.”
“Wasn't that wonderful?"Breathing hard, Celeana didn't say anything as she punched Ansel so hard in the face that the girl went flying off her horse and tumbled onto the sand. Ansel just clutched her jaw and laughed.”
“Mikhail truly liked Ansel-that much was obvious. he always found excuses to touch her, always smiled at her, always looked at her as if she were the only person in the room. Celeana sloshed her wine around in her glass. If she were being honest, sometimes she thought Sam looked at her that way. But then he'd go and say something absurd, or try to undermine her, and she'd chide herself for even thinking about him. Her stomach tightened. What had Arobynn done to him that night? She should have inquired after him. But in the day's after him, she's been so busy, wrapped up in her rage... She hadn't dared look for him, actually. Because if Arobynn had hurt Sam the way he'd hurt her... Celeana drained the rest of her wine.”