The quote from "No Country for Old Men" by Cormac McCarthy suggests a sense of futility in trying to reclaim what has been lost. It highlights the reality that constantly striving to recover lost things only leads to further loss, as time and energy are drained in the process. The metaphor of putting on a tourniquet implies a desperate attempt to stop the bleeding, indicating that some losses may never be fully recovered. This reflection resonates with broader themes in the novel, where characters grapple with the inevitability of change and loss in their lives. Ultimately, it emphasizes the importance of acceptance rather than resistance, suggesting that battling against the tide of loss can lead to deeper despair. Thus, the struggle to hold onto the past can hinder one’s ability to move forward.