The horse in Mark Helprin's "Winter's Tale" is depicted as having an intense connection to Manhattan, which serves as an irresistible pull for it. The city is described in various captivating ways, emphasizing its allure and the essential role it plays in the horse's existence. The imagery compares Manhattan to fundamental needs and desires, suggesting a profound relationship between the animal and the urban landscape.

This relationship hints at themes of longing and connection, as the horse views Manhattan as not just a place but as an integral aspect of its identity. The comparison to oats and a mare suggests that, just like these basic elements of life, Manhattan offers the horse something vital, evoking a sense of adventure and endless possibility that resonates deeply within its spirit.