This evocative quote explores themes of hidden longing, intense emotion, and perhaps destructive passion. The imagery of women whose secret desires influence horses—creatures often symbolizing vitality, strength, and freedom—suggests a connection between internal secrets and external actions. The horses' dramatic response—ending their lives at the threshold—could symbolize the devastating impact unspoken or suppressed emotions can have on oneself and the surrounding world. It hints at the destructive potential that lies beneath concealed passions, emphasizing that what remains hidden can sometimes affect others profoundly.

The phrase also invites reflection on the nature of desire itself—how it can be beautiful yet dangerous if left unacknowledged. The threshold can be interpreted as a liminal space, a point of transition or decision, emphasizing that these desires exist on the edge between recognition and suppression. While the statement may initially seem stark or even surreal, it underscores the importance of understanding the depths of human emotion and the consequences of neglecting inner truths.

Furthermore, the poem’s imagery beckons the reader to consider the complexity of identity—how inner states, often hidden, shape actions and destinies. Emotions kept inside can metaphorically lead to the self-inflicted demise of vitality or spirit, much like the horses’ tragic demise. Overall, this quote reminds us that our unspoken passions and fears possess the power to influence not only our lives but potentially cause collateral damage if left unaddressed. It’s a poetic reflection on the delicate balance between inner desire and outer reality, urging contemplation about authenticity and repression.

(Unfortunately, It Was Paradise: Selected Poems) - Mahmoud Darwish