The scene described portrays a breathtaking dawn at the riverbank, where the eastern sky glows a deep red, reminiscent of coals in a forge. This vivid imagery emphasizes the beauty of the morning as the sun begins to rise. The dew clinging to the chaparral gives the landscape a magical quality, making it appear as if the plants are adorned with glistening diamonds.

As the sun finally breaks over the horizon, the light refracts off the dew, creating a multitude of tiny rainbows among the bushes in the backyard. This moment captures not only the stunning visual transformation of the environment but also evokes a sense of tranquility and wonder at the start of a new day in Lonesome Dove, highlighting McMurtry's ability to paint rich imagery with his words.