because dangling your legs over the precipice is nothing unless you're prepared to go that extra two inches, and none of us had been. We could tell each other and ourselves something different -- oh, I would have done it if she hadn't been there or he hadn't been there or if someone hadn't sat on my head -- but that fact of the matter was that we were all still around, and we'd all had ample opportunity not to be.
The quote reflects on the inner thoughts of individuals confronted with life-altering decisions while teetering on the edge of despair. It suggests that merely contemplating a leap into the unknown is meaningless unless one is truly ready to take that final step. Each character grapples with their excuses and rationalizations for avoiding the plunge, revealing their fears and hesitations. Their survival highlights a common human tendency to avoid taking risks, even when the urge to escape feels overwhelming.
The characters’ shared experiences emphasize a universal struggle with vulnerability and self-deception. They find solace in the idea of agency, believing that if circumstances were different, they could have acted differently. Yet, the reality is stark; their presence signifies a collective reluctance to embrace change. Ultimately, the narrative invites readers to ponder the barriers that prevent them from moving forward and the importance of confronting one's fears rather than relying on convenient justifications.
