He poured the tumbler full. Drink up, he said. The world goes on. We have dancing nightly and this night is no exception. The straight and the winding way are one and now that you are here what do the years count since last we two met together? Men's memories are uncertain and the past that was differs little from the past that was not.
In this passage from "Blood Meridian," the act of pouring a drink symbolizes a moment of camaraderie and reflection. The character invites another to drink, suggesting that life continues regardless of previous events. The mention of dancing implies a celebration, highlighting the fleeting nature of time and experiences shared between individuals, emphasizing the importance of the present.
Moreover, the speaker muses on the uncertainty of memory, suggesting that past events can blur together, making it difficult to distinguish what truly happened. This perspective offers a philosophical look at the nature of time and human connection, indicating that the significance of their reunion outweighs the specific years that have passed since they last met.
