The night had fallen. I had let my tools drop from my hands. Of what moment now was my hammer, my bolt, or thirst, or death? On one star, one planet, my planet, the Earth, there was a little prince to be comforted. I took him in my arms, and rocked him. I said to him: "The flower that you love is not in danger. I will draw you a muzzle for your sheep. I will draw you a railing to put around your flower. I will --" I did not know what to say to him. I felt awkward and blundering. I did not know how I could reach him, where I could overtake him and go on hand in hand with him once more. It is such a secret place, the land of tears.
The narrator reflects on a moment of deep emotional connection and vulnerability as he drops his tools, symbolizing a surrender to feelings more profound than any physical labor. He acknowledges that amidst concerns such as thirst or death, the most pressing matter is the comfort of a little prince on his beloved planet, Earth. This signifies the importance of emotional support and the significance of nurturing our relationships, especially during times of distress.
As the narrator cradles the prince, he attempts to reassure him that the flower he cherishes is safe. His desire to create protective measures for the prince's flower and sheep highlights his wish to shield those we love from harm. Yet, he feels clumsy and unsure of how to fully express his feelings and support. This captures the complexity of comforting others and emphasizes the essence of love and care in navigating the "secret place" of sorrow and emotions.
