They conducted their love affair in the room above the abandoned corn exchange as the autumn weather came lop-leggedly in from the east: now a warm day, now a sunny one, now four days of cold winds and thin rain.
This quote from Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire paints a vivid image of a love affair unfolding in a secluded, somewhat neglected space, set against the backdrop of the changing autumn weather. The choice of setting—a room above an abandoned corn exchange—serves as a powerful metaphor for the transient and perhaps clandestine nature of their relationship. An abandoned space symbolizes neglect or a past life that once thrived, mirroring how their love may be hidden or existing out of the mainstream.
The description of the autumn weather as 'lop-leggedly' entering from the east evokes a sense of unpredictability and uneven progression, which parallels the fluctuating mood of their affair. The weather shifts from warmth to sunshine, then to cold winds and rain over days, just as emotions and situations in relationships often fluctuate between comfort, brightness, and hardship. This dynamic contrast reveals the complexity and layered texture of human romance.
Reflecting on this quote, one might consider how environments—both physical and emotional—shape relationships. The abandoned corn exchange might symbolize spaces within ourselves that feel isolated or forgotten, yet become the venues for deep connection and passion. Similarly, the capriciousness of the autumn weather mirrors the uncertainties within love and life. Overall, this passage beautifully encapsulates the intersection of environment, mood, and human intimacy, suggesting that love persists amidst change and unpredictability.
