I will have papers. And whether it is one George or the other who rules in time - this land will be ours. And yours, he added softly, raising his eyes to Brianna's. And your children's after you. I laid my hand on his, where it rested on the box. His skin was warm with work and the heat of the day, and he smelt of clean sweat. The hairs on his forearm shone red and gold in the sun, and I understood very well just then, why it is that men measure time. They wish to fix a moment, in the vain hope that so doing will keep it from departing
In the quote, the speaker discusses the significance of possessing papers that affirm their rights to the land, emphasizing a sense of ownership that transcends time. The mention of rulers named George indicates historical continuity and change, but the speaker is confident that the land will ultimately belong to them and their descendants. This sentiment reflects a deep-rooted connection to their heritage and the future.
The sensory details in the passage, such as the warmth of the speaker's skin, the heat of the day, and the smell of clean sweat, create an intimate moment between the characters. It highlights the human desire to pause time and hold on to fleeting moments, showcasing a universal longing for permanence amidst the passage of time. The physicality of the scene reinforces the emotional weight of these themes, illustrating the profound relationship between individuals and their environments.
