The air smelled like testosterone and manflesh again. {That was a thing, right?}
This quote cleverly captures a rather vivid and sensory moment that is both humorous and evocative. The mentioning of "testosterone and manflesh" invokes a powerful image associated with masculinity and physical presence, something raw and almost palpable. It's interesting how the author adds the parenthetical "That was a thing, right?" which breaks the fourth wall just slightly, acknowledging the unusual but tangible nature of this description. It adds a touch of lightheartedness, suggesting either a surprise or a resigned acceptance of this intense atmosphere.
In a broader sense, this line could symbolize the re-emergence or strong presence of male energy or masculinity within a specific setting — perhaps a sports event, a locker room, or any space characterized by traditionally male activities and smells. The description is simultenously primal and poetic, creating an immersive experience for the reader.
From a stylistic point of view, it reflects Gena Showalter's ability to blend a contemporary voice with vivid imagery and a pinch of humor, encouraging us not only to visualize but to sense the environment. Such a quote might evoke different reactions depending on the reader’s perspective — it might be amusing, unsettling, or nostalgically familiar. Overall, it invites the reader to lean into and appreciate the honesty and identity markers of a moment frozen in time, celebrating the tangible intensity of presence and atmosphere.