Meaning: This quote by Nadine Gordimer, a South African novelist and Nobel Prize winner, encapsulates the idea of the profound difference between those who are fully committed and engaged with a cause or belief, and those who remain indifferent or apathetic. The imagery of a Sahara desert speaks to the vast and unforgiving nature of this gap, emphasizing the difficulty in bridging the divide between the two groups.

The use of the term "faint trails" suggests that even the smallest attempts to understand or connect with the indifferent can be fleeting and easily lost, much like tracks in the shifting sands of the desert. The phrase "followed by the mind's eye only" adds a layer of introspection, implying that the pursuit of understanding or reconciliation may be a solitary and internal endeavor for those who are committed.

Nadine Gordimer's choice of imagery and language in this quote underscores the challenges and complexities inherent in attempting to bridge the gap between those who are committed and those who are indifferent. The vast and inhospitable landscape of the Sahara serves as a powerful metaphor for the seemingly insurmountable distance between these two groups.

In a broader context, this quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the dynamics of social and political engagement. It speaks to the struggle of trying to reach and engage with those who are apathetic or disengaged, highlighting the formidable obstacles that can impede meaningful communication and understanding.

Moreover, the quote also points to the potential futility of such efforts, as the trails of understanding or connection may ultimately "fade out in sand," suggesting that attempts to bridge this gap may be fleeting and ultimately unsuccessful.

Nadine Gordimer's own experiences as a writer and activist in South Africa, where she was deeply involved in the anti-apartheid movement, lend further weight to the quote. Throughout her career, Gordimer's writing often grappled with issues of social and political injustice, and she was known for her unflinching exploration of the complexities of human relationships and societal divisions.

In conclusion, Nadine Gordimer's quote provides a poignant and evocative reflection on the profound divide between the committed and the indifferent, using the imagery of the Sahara desert to convey the vast and challenging nature of this gap. It serves as a reminder of the difficulties inherent in trying to bridge such divides, and the potential for understanding and connection to be lost in the vast expanse of indifference.