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Poetry Quote by Donna Leon

“They walked slowly, taking the shortest way, deliberately cutting through Campo delle Fava to avoid the crowds in Calle della Bissa. When they arrived at the foot of the Rialto bridge, they looked up at it, horrified. Anthill, termites, wasps. Ignoring these thoughts, they locked arms and started…” quote by Donna Leon
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““They walked slowly, taking the shortest way, deliberately cutting through Campo delle Fava to avoid the crowds in Calle della Bissa. When they arrived at the foot of the Rialto bridge, they looked up at it, horrified. Anthill, termites, wasps. Ignoring these thoughts, they locked arms and started up, eyes on their feet and the area immediately in front of them. Up, up, up as feet descended towards them, but they ignored them and didn't stop. Up, up, up and across the top, shoving their way through the motionless people, deaf to their admiration. Then down, down, down, the momentum of their descent making them more formidable, They saw the feet of the people coming up towards them dance to the side at their approach, hardened their hearts to their protests, and plunged ahead. Then left and into the underpass, where they stopped, Brunetti's pulse raced and Paola leaned helpless on his arm. "I can't stand it any more," Paola said and pressed her forehead against his shoulder.””

Donna Leon

About This Quote

Source Novel: Death at La Fenice by Donna Leon, 2009

A couple navigates a crowded market, feeling overwhelmed, yet they push forward despite fear and opposition, showing determination in chaotic environments.

In simple terms: They keep moving despite fear and crowds.

Key Takeaway

Persist through discomfort.

Themes

determination crowds fear movement

Mood

tense determined

Type

narrative dramatic

When to use this quote

  • market navigation
  • relationship tension
  • urban exploration

Key Concepts

psychology social pressure resilience

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you maintain focus when surrounded by opposition?
  • When is it wise to heed crowd sentiment?
A Different Perspective

Their resolve may ignore legitimate concerns of others.

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