journal and review

McCarthy ends the novel with the image of trout in mountain streams before the end of the world—”on their backs were vermiculate patterns that were maps of the world in its becoming. Maps and mazes. Of a thing which could not be put back. Not be made right again. In the deep glens where they lived all things were older than man and they hummed of mystery” (287).

Why end this way? What might this text be attempting to tell us with this ending? Why does this last bit of imagery close out the novel rather than the boy’s interaction with the woman? What might it be telling us about the overarching message of this text? See if you can reflect upon imagined audiences and possible purposes at this point. Also think about symbolism, imagery, and all we have explored about this genre thus far.

500 word minimum.