Though possibly it–the answer–is simple: it is just low-life, some coldness in us all, some helplessness that causes us to misunderstand life when it is pure and plain, makes our existence seem like a border between two nothings, and makes us no more or less than animals who meet on the road-watchful, unforgiving, without patience or desire.
The essence of existence can sometimes feel bleak, as suggested by Richard Ford in "Rock Springs." He posits that there is a fundamental coldness and helplessness within humanity that leads to a misunderstanding of life’s simplicity. This struggle creates a perception of life as a barren landscape, where individuals are caught between emptiness. It implies that people often act merely on instinct, similar to animals navigating a path, lacking kindness or patience.
This reflection suggests that the very nature of our existence can reduce us to basic survival instincts, viewing life through a lens of desolation. Instead of experiencing the richness of being, we may find ourselves distracted by our apathy and misunderstandings. Ford’s quote serves as a poignant reminder of this inherent struggle within humanity, inviting us to reconsider how we engage with our lives and with each other.
