When I was a boy I first learned how much better water tastes when it has set a while in a cedar bucket. Warmish-cool, with a faint taste like the hot July wind in Cedar trees smells.
In William Faulkner's "As I Lay Dying," the narrator reflects on his childhood experience of tasting water stored in a cedar bucket. This seemingly simple observation reveals deeper themes of memory and sensory perception. The unique flavor of the water, reminiscent of the summer wind among cedar trees, suggests a connection to nature and the nostalgia of youth.
This passage highlights how everyday experiences can evoke strong emotions and memories. The warmth and distinct taste of the water symbolize a blend of comfort and the passage of time, emphasizing the idea that ordinary moments can carry profound significance in one's life.