A thousand stories had painted cities in his mind, the great cities of kings and queens, of thrones and powers and legends, and Caemlyn fit into those mind-deep pictures and water fits into a jug.
The quote expresses the deep influence of stories on a person's imagination, particularly in shaping their perception of cities. The protagonist envisions grand cities filled with history and significance, painted through tales of royalty, power, and legends. Caemlyn, in particular, is depicted as a city that seamlessly fits into these vivid mental images, much like water fitting into a jug, signifying how these thoughts and stories have crafted a clear and evocative vision of the world around him.
This imagery highlights the power of storytelling in creating rich worlds within one’s mind. It suggests that memories and narratives can mold our understanding of places, making them feel familiar and vibrant. The connection between the personal experiences of the character and the iconic landscapes reflects the theme of adventure and discovery in Robert Jordan's work, as well as the broader impact of culture and legend on individual perception.