The black ice of that dark fortress received the sunlight like a mortal wound.
In Salman Rushdie's "Haroun and the Sea of Stories," the imagery of "the black ice of that dark fortress" conveys a powerful contrast between light and darkness. The phrase suggests that sunlight, typically a symbol of hope and vitality, interacts with the fortress in a way that implies a deep, almost painful absorption. This relationship highlights the imposing nature of the fortress, which could represent obstacles or challenges that, despite the light, remain ominous and intimidating.
This quote emphasizes the theme of coexistence between beauty and despair. The sunlight is likened to a "mortal wound," suggesting that with illumination comes a sense of vulnerability. The fortress, emblematic of struggle or imprisonment, receives this light yet remains unchanged in its oppressive nature. Through this juxtaposition, Rushdie explores the complexities of storytelling and the power of narratives to transform perceptions of darkness and light.
