That it's rough out there and chancy is no surprise. Every live thing is a survivor on a kind of extended emergency bivouac. But at the same time we are also created. In the Koran, Allah asks "the heaven and the earth, and all in between, thinkest thou I made them in jest?" It's a good question. What do we think of the created universe, spanning an unthinkable void with an unthinkable profusion of forms? Or what do we think of nothingness, those sickening reaches of time in either direction? If the giant water bug was not made in jest, was it then made in earnest?
The quote reflects on the harsh realities of life and the precarious existence of all living beings, suggesting that survival in a tough world is a universal challenge. The idea that life itself is an ongoing struggle resonates, indicating that every organism is constantly navigating through uncertainties and adversities. This serves as a reminder of the resilience inherent in nature, emphasizing the instinctual fight for survival that characterizes the existence of all species.
Moreover, the quote raises profound questions about the nature of creation and existence. It evokes a contemplation of the universe's vastness and complexity, as suggested by the reference to the Koran, which prompts us to consider whether anything created has true purpose or meaning, or whether existence is merely an accident. Through exploring these philosophical themes, Dillard invites readers to ponder our place within this grand and often bewildering tapestry of life, provoking thought about both creation and the void that precedes and surrounds it.
