In Hilary Mantel's "Bring Up the Bodies," Stephen possesses a commanding presence that alters the atmosphere of any room he enters. His arrival is so intense that even the inanimate objects seem to respond to him. Chairs appear to move away, and joint-stools seem to diminish in size, as if recoiling from his intimidating aura.
The description continues with an imaginative portrayal of the king's tapestries, where woolen figures visibly react by raising their hands to shield their ears, emphasizing the overwhelming effect Stephen has on those around him. This vivid imagery illustrates the profound impact his character has on the environment, suggesting both fear and respect from the surrounding elements.