Sooner or later the mind grasps at a thought and follows it into the labyrinth, one thought branching into another. Then the labyrinth caves in on itself and you find yourself outside. You were never inside--it was a dream.
In Denis Johnson's "Tree of Smoke," the nature of thought is explored as an intricate maze, illustrating how one idea can spiral into a multitude of others. This process reflects the complex and often convoluted workings of the mind, where thoughts can lead us far from our original intent, creating a labyrinthine journey of contemplation.
Ultimately, the passage suggests that the seemingly overwhelming nature of our thoughts can be deceptive. While...