In "All the Pretty Horses" by Cormac McCarthy, the character Rawlins expresses a longing for a rebellious persona, evident in his admiration for black boots. His remark hints at a desire for the qualities associated with a "badman," embodying a sense of toughness and bravado. This reflects a broader theme of identity and aspiration within the novel, where characters navigate their search for meaning in a harsh landscape.

Rawlins's statement encapsulates the youthful yearning for adventure and a departure from societal norms. The metaphor of "black boots" symbolizes a rugged individualism and the romanticized notion of a life unbound by conventional expectations. McCarthy uses such moments to explore deeper existential themes, revealing how characters grapple with their roles in a challenging world.