In Cormac McCarthy's novel "The Road," the imagery of the sun is poignantly depicted as a banished entity, likened to a grieving mother. This metaphor suggests a deep sense of loss and melancholy, portraying a world that is overshadowed and dim. The sun, traditionally a symbol of life and warmth, is rendered powerless, circling the earth in a manner that evokes sorrow and nostalgia for a brighter past.
The quote reflects the novel's overarching themes of survival and the stark reality of a post-apocalyptic landscape. The connection between the sun and a grieving mother emphasizes the protective yet sorrowful nature of the environment that envelops the characters. It highlights the struggle for hope and light in a world that seems devoid of vitality, encapsulating the emotional landscape of the narrative.