This excerpt from Jean Anouilh's "Antigone" reflects a deep sense of existential contemplation. It captures the struggles of individuals facing the harsh realities of life, such as the chill of dawn and the solitude of night. The mention of someone getting up early just to experience the cold emphasizes a profound connection to nature and the feeling of vulnerability that comes with it. It raises questions about the purpose of life and the inevitability of sorrow that accompanies it.
The imagery of crying over the countless animals and blades of grass in the meadow suggests a sense of loss and the limitations of existence. It conveys a longing for connection and an overwhelming awareness of the beauty and fragility of life. Anouilh's writing captures the contemplative state of humanity, grappling with their emotions in a world filled with both wonder and sadness.