In this excerpt from Tom Robbins' book, "Wild Ducks Flying Backward," the author expresses a poignant wish tied to his impending execution. He longs for the simple act of receiving a fresh tomato from kind-hearted individuals in Colorado, alluding to Hunter S. Thompson's unique perspective on life. This yearning is mixed with a sense of nostalgia and a playful reference to Thompson's wild persona, hinting at a deeper connection between literature and the vibrancy of life.

Robbins reflects on the loss of colorful personalities in the literary world following Thompson's death, lamenting the absence of writers who challenge the dullness of contemporary society. He questions where the lively voices have gone, implying that today's writers lack the boldness and vibrancy that once enriched American literature. This sentiment underscores a broader cultural concern about art losing its edge and the authentic human experiences that define it.