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She was glad she'd missed the river of corpses that must…

“She was glad she'd missed the river of corpses that must have filled the city streets during the initial phase of clean-up - wagon after wagon groaning beneath the weight of crushed bodies, white flesh seared by fire and slashed by sword, rat-gnawed and raven-pecked - men, women, and children.” quote by Steven Erikson
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““She was glad she'd missed the river of corpses that must have filled the city streets during the initial phase of clean-up - wagon after wagon groaning beneath the weight of crushed bodies, white flesh seared by fire and slashed by sword, rat-gnawed and raven-pecked - men, women, and children.””

Steven Erikson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The narrator reflects on surviving a horrific massacre, noting relief at having missed the carnage that once filled the streets.

In simple terms: Relief at missing horror.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate survival, recognize tragedy.

Themes

war survival humanity

Mood

somber grim

Type

literary historical

When to use this quote

  • post‑war reconstruction
  • memorials
  • psychological healing

Key Concepts

trauma memory historical violence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this scene teach about human resilience?
  • How do we honor victims without glorifying violence?
A Different Perspective

The graphic description may overwhelm or desensitize readers.

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