The landlord replied he had no chickens, for the kites had stolen them.
In Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's "Don Quixote," a humorous exchange occurs when a landlord claims that he has no chickens because they have been taken by kites. This situation highlights the absurdity and challenges faced by those living in a world governed by unpredictable forces, including nature and chance. The landlord's response may also reflect on the fragility of rural life, where reliance on agriculture can be easily disrupted by exterior threats.
This moment serves as a representation of broader themes within the book, emphasizing the struggles of individuals against uncontrollable circumstances. Cervantes uses such interactions to illustrate human folly and the often ironic ways in which people confront their realities. The landlord's lament about the missing chickens serves not only as a comedic touch but also as a reflection on vulnerability and the unexpected trials faced in everyday life.