The rich smell of the rose was almost visible; I fancied it lent a rosy edge to the shadows cast by the firelight.
The passage evokes a vivid sensory experience where the fragrance of the rose seems to transform the surrounding atmosphere. The author suggests that the scent is so potent it enhances the visual environment, creating a connection between smell and sight. This interplay suggests that beauty can influence perceptions and emotions in profound ways.
In McKinley’s retelling, the imagery not only highlights the allure of the rose but also reflects on the themes of beauty and transformation. The way the shadows are tinted by the rose's aroma implies that beauty can illuminate even the darker aspects of life, lending a hopeful perspective amidst challenges, much like the characters in the story navigate their own transformations.