Meaning:
The quote "This is the sense of the desert hills, that there is room enough and time enough" by Mary Austin captures the essence of the desert landscape and the feeling of spaciousness and tranquility it evokes. Mary Austin was an American writer known for her vivid portrayals of the natural world, particularly the deserts of the American Southwest. Through her writings, she sought to convey the profound sense of freedom and expansiveness that can be found in these seemingly barren and inhospitable environments.
In this quote, Mary Austin is expressing the profound sense of freedom and solitude that one can experience in the desert hills. The vast expanse of the desert landscape, with its rolling hills and endless horizon, creates a feeling of boundless space and unending time. In the desert, one can escape the constraints of urban life and find a sense of peace and tranquility in the vastness of the natural world.
The desert hills, with their rugged beauty and stark simplicity, offer a refuge from the pressures and busyness of modern life. In the midst of the desert, one can experience a profound sense of timelessness and a connection to the ancient rhythms of nature. The slow, gradual processes of erosion and change that have shaped the desert landscape over millennia serve as a reminder of the enduring nature of the natural world, and the insignificance of human concerns in the grand scheme of things.
Furthermore, the quote suggests that the desert hills offer a sense of spaciousness that allows for contemplation and reflection. In the vast openness of the desert, one can find a sense of inner peace and clarity. The absence of the clutter and distractions of urban life allows for a deep connection with oneself and with the natural world. The desert hills become a place of introspection and self-discovery, where one can gain a renewed perspective on life and a heightened awareness of the beauty and wonder of the world around them.
Mary Austin's words also hint at the idea of the desert as a place of resilience and endurance. Despite its harsh and unforgiving conditions, the desert teems with life and sustains a rich and diverse ecosystem. The plants, animals, and indigenous peoples that have adapted to the challenges of the desert environment serve as a testament to the tenacity and strength of life itself. In this way, the desert becomes a symbol of the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and thrive in the face of hardship.
In conclusion, Mary Austin's quote "This is the sense of the desert hills, that there is room enough and time enough" beautifully captures the profound sense of freedom, tranquility, and introspection that can be found in the desert landscape. Through her evocative words, she invites us to experience the boundless beauty and enduring spirit of the desert, and to find solace and inspiration in its vastness and timelessness.