You might say that he had lost the gift of evoking the perfumes of life: sea water, the smoke of burning hemlock, and the breasts of women. He had damaged, you might say, the ear's innermost chamber, where we hear the heavy noise of the dragon's tail moving over the dead leaves.
In John Cheever's work, there is a poignant exploration of loss, particularly the ability to sense and appreciate the rich experiences of life. The narrative reflects on a character who has become disconnected from the sensory joys and vivid memories that once defined their existence. The mention of various sensory elements, such as the ocean's salty air or the intimacy suggested by femininity, emphasizes a deep longing for a past where life's aromas and sounds were vibrant and profound.
Furthermore, Cheever illustrates the toll that personal decline can take on one's perception of the world. The imagery of the "dragon's tail" and the heavy noise it generates symbolizes a weighty burden, perhaps indicating the profound impact of loss on one's ability to engage with life fully. Through this lens, Cheever invites readers to contemplate the significance of sensory experiences and how the erosion of such gifts can lead to a more profound existential void.
