I knew even before I had desire that it would be gnarled and knotted, black and hard, a tree that would never bear fruit, a fish that would never jump, a cat that would never meow. All my life, bitterness and regret, bitterness, and regret. "And yet," he said, briefly closing his eyes, "I was able to imagine the softness and sweetness of love, for a time." He rested his head upon his right hand, in a gesture worthy of a classical actor, and everyone in the Teatro Barbarossa heard his breathing.
The character reflects on a life marked by bitterness and regret, symbolized through imagery of a fruitless tree and a silent cat. These elements suggest a sense of longing for what could have been, as he grapples with the harsh realities of his experiences. The vivid descriptions convey a deep emotional struggle, illustrating the weight of a hardened heart that has faced disappointment.
Yet, amid this sorrow, he hints at a fleeting capacity to imagine love's gentleness, showcasing a moment of vulnerability and hope. This contrast between despair and the yearning for sweetness emphasizes the complexity of human emotions, reminding the audience of the potential for love even in the darkest times. His posture and breathing further dramatize this internal conflict, captivating those around him.