The quote emphasizes the central role of a powerful machine, suggesting that it embodies the essence of their commercial power and ingenuity. It presents the machine as a vital force, likened to a core or a source from which energy radiates, deeply entwined with the identity of the environment surrounding it.
The vivid imagery evokes a scene of stark contrast, where the machine resembles a cataclysm, with the description of shattered glass cascading like rivers, highlighting the destructive yet awe-inspiring nature of technology. This portrayal reflects a fusion of beauty and menace, underlining how industrial advancements can dominate and transform the natural landscape.