In this passage from "Heart of Darkness" by Joseph Conrad, the narrator describes a journey up a river that feels like stepping back into the primitive origins of the world. The landscape is overwhelming, filled with dense vegetation and towering trees, creating a sense of dominance in nature. The air is thick and oppressive, while the silence is profound, evoking a feeling of unease rather than tranquility.

The stillness encountered is not peaceful but foreboding, suggesting an underlying power with an unknown purpose. Instead of presenting a serene environment, the setting exudes a threatening intensity, almost as if nature itself has a vengeful presence, subtly warning of the dangers and darkness that lie ahead. This imagery powerfully establishes the mood and themes of the narrative.