In Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness," the journey up the river symbolizes a regression to a primitive state of existence, reminiscent of the Earth's untamed past. The imagery of lush vegetation and majestic trees evokes a sense of primordial life, emphasizing the power and dominance of nature in this pre-human world.

This description serves to contrast the complexities of civilization with the raw beauty and chaos of natural environments. The river becomes a conduit to explore deeper existential themes, highlighting the tension between civilization and the innate instincts that lie within humanity.