The quote from Roxane Gay's "Difficult Women" describes a rifle in stark terms, emphasizing its physical attributes as a mere object—heavy and metallic. This characterization strips away any romanticized notions of firearms, presenting the rifle instead as a tool of destruction. Through this lens, the author invites readers to reflect on the role of violence and the implications of wielding such power.

By expressing the rifle as "a killing thing," Gay highlights the inherent danger and moral weight associated with weapons. This perspective challenges us to consider how objects that are often attributed with power can also embody profound destruction and loss. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of the realities of violence in society and the weight of the decisions surrounding its use.