Meaning: This quote is a vivid description of a person's injuries and is taken from the short story "The Duel" by Augustus Baldwin Longstreet, an American humorist and essayist. In this passage, the narrator, who is witnessing a duel, describes the physical damage inflicted upon one of the duelists, Bob. The graphic depiction of Bob's injuries serves to convey the brutal and violent nature of the duel, as well as to evoke a sense of shock and horror in the reader.

The quote paints a gruesome picture of Bob's injuries, detailing the loss of his left ear and a large piece of his left cheek, as well as the discolored right eye and profuse bleeding from his wounds. Longstreet's choice of language is impactful and visceral, creating a powerful image in the reader's mind. The use of specific details such as the mention of the left ear and cheek, the discolored eye, and the profuse bleeding adds a sense of realism and immediacy to the description, making it all the more impactful.

The brutality and violence depicted in the quote reflect the larger themes of the story, which explores the destructive consequences of pride, honor, and the code of dueling in the antebellum South. Longstreet uses the duel as a lens through which to examine the absurdity and senselessness of such violent displays of masculinity and honor. The vivid description of Bob's injuries serves to underscore the physical and emotional toll of the duel, highlighting the senseless and tragic nature of the conflict.

In addition to its thematic significance, the quote also showcases Longstreet's skill as a writer in his ability to create a gripping and evocative description. Through his careful choice of words and attention to detail, Longstreet brings Bob's injuries to life, inviting the reader to empathize with the character's pain and suffering. The visceral nature of the description serves to elicit a strong emotional response from the reader, drawing them into the scene and immersing them in the harrowing reality of the duel.

Furthermore, the quote also raises questions about the morality and ethics of dueling, forcing the reader to confront the senseless violence and devastation it brings. By confronting the reader with the graphic reality of Bob's injuries, Longstreet compels them to consider the human cost of such acts of honor and pride, challenging the romanticized notions of dueling prevalent in the antebellum South.

In conclusion, the quote from "The Duel" by Augustus Baldwin Longstreet offers a vivid and impactful description of a character's injuries, serving as a powerful commentary on the destructive consequences of pride, honor, and the practice of dueling. Through his evocative language and attention to detail, Longstreet creates a visceral and emotionally charged depiction that resonates with the reader, prompting reflection on the senselessness and brutality of such violent displays of masculinity and honor.