In "Nightwoods," Charles Frazier explores the intensity of desire and romantic longing through the metaphor of a flame. The narrative suggests that the immediate, passionate connection is often more powerful than the reflective emotional turmoil experienced by the man. This juxtaposition highlights how urgent physical attraction can overshadow deeper feelings of love and heartbreak, revealing the complex nature of human relationships.
Frazier's writing delves into the contrasts between urgent physicality and the profound, often painful recollections that accompany love. The woman's allure ignites an uncontrollable desire, illustrating that sometimes primal instincts can dominate, regardless of the more sentimental or sorrowful feelings that may come later. This theme underscores the multifaceted experiences of love, where passion and reflection coexist but can also conflict.