In Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's "Don Quixote," the protagonist often finds himself in deep contemplation while seated on his horse. The imagery of him resting in his stirrups and leaning on his lance conveys a sense of weariness and introspection. These moments reflect his internal struggles and the weight of his ideals as he grapples with the challenges of his imagined chivalric adventures.

The portrayal of Don Quixote in this state highlights his conflicted nature, as he is both a noble dreamer and a man overwhelmed by reality. His sad and troubled forebodings symbolize the disconnect between his lofty aspirations and the harsher truths of the world around him, enriching the narrative with themes of illusion versus reality.