"They had certainly exasperated them, and could not disperse them, as after every charge - and some of these drove the people right against the shutters in the shops in the Strand - they returned again"
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The quote by Walter Crane records a brilliant scene of social unrest and the resilience of a crowd facing opposition. At its core, this passage explains a confrontation between a group of individuals and the forces trying to disperse them. The word "exasperated" recommends that the crowd has actually been upset or provoked, meaning an underlying complaint or trigger driving their actions. Despite efforts to break them up-- possibly by police or authorities-- the crowd's decision appears as they persistently regroup and go back to their positions.
The phrase "some of these drove the people right against the shutters in the stores in the Strand" paints an image of the physical intensity of the conflict. The Strand, a major street in London, suggests a city setting, perhaps suggesting the scene includes a large, public demonstration or presentation. The imagery of individuals being pushed against shop shutters communicates turmoil and condition, highlighting the force utilized in attempts to control or dissolve the crowd.
The repeating in "they returned once again" highlights the durability and perseverance of the crowd. Despite dispersal efforts that for a little while scatter them, the individuals are driven by a strong inspiration to continue their gathering. This perseverance can be translated as a metaphor for cumulative action and uniformity in the face of adversity, a common theme in historical and social motions.
Walter Crane, known for his participation in the arts and social movements throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, may be depicting a scene that shows more comprehensive themes of resistance versus oppressive systems. The description might be symbolic of the ongoing struggles between authority and public dissent, where the determination of people to stand their ground serves as a testimony to their dedication to a cause. In essence, the passage highlights the enduring spirit of collective action versus attempts to reduce it, a vibrant that resonates across different contexts and epochs.
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