"It was like a miracle, but before our very eyes, and almost in the drawing of a breath, the whole body crumbled into dust and passed from our sight"
About this Quote
In Bram Stoker's brilliant and evocative description, the quote "It was like a miracle, but before our really eyes, and nearly in the illustration of a breath, the whole body collapsed into dust and passed from our sight" catches a moment of extensive change and the ephemeral nature of existence. This passage, loaded with imagery and emotion, functions as an effective metaphor for the transient nature of life and the mysterious forces that govern our world.
Stoker's use of the word "miracle" recommends an extraordinary occasion, something beyond the realm of regular experience. This term frequently suggests divine intervention or a phenomenon that can not be described by the laws of nature. The incredible element of the improvement highlights the supernatural elements at play, perhaps alluding to styles of life, death, and rebirth that are common in gothic literature. There is a sense of awe and wonder, in addition to a recommendation of forces beyond human understanding.
The phrase "before our really eyes" suggests immediacy and individual witness, drawing the reader into the scene as if they, too, are observing this amazing incident. This immediacy increases the impact, making the minute feel immediate and indisputable. Stoker's option of "almost in the illustration of a breath" stresses the swift and nearly invisible nature of the modification. It communicates the fragility of the human body and the speed at which life can modify or disappear, strengthening the style of impermanence.
Lastly, "the whole body fell apart into dust and passed from our sight" concludes the change with a poignant image of dissolution. Dust is a sign of mortality and the inescapable decay that follows life. In a wider sense, it shows the cycle of life and the inexorable march of time. Stoker's narrative records a moment where truth intersects with the mystical, leaving an indelible mark on the observer and the reader alike. Through this powerful imagery, Stoker invites reflection on the mystical and fleeting nature of existence.
More details
About the Author