The quote reflects a critical view of the natural environment and its impact on human life. The speaker notes how the elements, such as weather, seem to persist longer than necessary, creating a sense of stagnation. This conveys a struggle between nature and humanity, suggesting that the land is both a nurturing and a constraining force that shapes existence in a harsh manner.

Faulkner's portrayal of rivers and land as "opaque," "slow," and "violent" highlights the complex relationship people have with their surroundings. It suggests that the environment can both sustain and challenge human life, exerting an overpowering influence that demands resilience and adaptation. This encapsulates a broader theme in his work about the weight of place and circumstance in shaping individual experiences and identities.