In "All the Pretty Horses," Cormac McCarthy explores themes of loss and the changes faced by a young protagonist, John Grady Cole, as he navigates a shifting landscape in both his country and personal life. The quote "I don't know what happens to country" reflects a sense of uncertainty and disillusionment. It embodies the confusion surrounding identity and belonging in a world undergoing profound transformation.

John Grady's journey represents not only a physical quest across the American Southwest but also an internal struggle with the values and ideals of a fading way of life. Through his experiences, McCarthy delves into the complexities of youth, dreams, and the harsh realities that confront them, raising poignant questions about the future of both individuals and their homeland.