He understood what the priest could not. That what we seek is the worthy adversary. For we strike out to fall flailing through demons of wire and crepe and we long for something of substance to oppose us. Something to contain us or to stay our hand. Otherwise there were no boundaries to our own being and we too must extend our claims until we lose all definition. Until we must be swallowed up at last by the very void to which we wished to stand opposed.
The passage reflects a deep understanding of human nature and the necessity of having challenges or adversaries in our lives. It suggests that the essence of existence requires us to confront something significant, serving as a boundary that defines us. Without such a challenge, individuals risk losing their identity, as they may stretch their ambitions and desires beyond control. The mention of demons creates an image of the struggles one faces, emphasizing that these conflicts are a crucial part of finding meaning in life.
This idea highlights the importance of opposition in personal growth and self-discovery. The quest for a "worthy adversary" indicates that true engagement with life's battles can shape our character and lead to greater understanding. In the absence of these constraints, we might be overwhelmed by the void of limitless possibilities, losing the very essence that gives us purpose. Therefore, defining our boundaries through challenges is essential to maintaining our identity and direction in life.
