In "Blood Meridian," Cormac McCarthy explores the theme of transformation and the quest for identity. The child, who has grown up with a certain history and background, finally experiences a moment of shedding his past. This signifies a profound change where his origins and future become distant concepts, allowing him to confront the wildness of the world around him.

This passage reflects the struggle between the forces of nature and human will, posing the question of whether mankind can truly shape the world to his desires. It suggests that within every individual lies a fundamental essence that resembles clay, indicating a duality of creation and the intrinsic nature of one's heart. Through this lens, McCarthy delves into existential themes of existence, identity, and the human condition.