The quote reflects a deep sense of exhaustion and surrender, capturing a moment of profound weariness. The imagery of strength flowing away suggests that the character has reached a breaking point, where both emotional and physical energy are completely depleted. It paints a vivid picture of someone overwhelmed by fatigue and suffering, embodying the struggles of existence.
In Wallace Stegner’s "Wolf Willow," this description encapsulates the human experience of enduring pain and the toll it takes on the spirit. The character's bones, veins, and skin symbolize the toll that weariness can have on one's entire being, indicating an overarching theme of resilience in the face of relentless challenges.