Thorns Grew Quote by James Thurber
““The brambles and the thorns grew thick and thicker in a ticking thicket of bickering crickets. Farther along and stronger, bonged the gongs of a throng of frogs, green and vivid on their lily pads. From the sky came the crying of flies, and the pilgrims leaped over a bleating sheep creeping knee-deep in a sleepy stream, in which swift and slippery snakes slid and slithered silkily, whispering sinful secrets.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” by James Thurber, 1939
A vivid, chaotic scene mixes natural and absurd elements, reflecting inner turmoil and the clash of reality and imagination.
In simple terms: A wild, confusing scene shows inner chaos.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the absurd to understand inner conflict.
Themes
surrealism
conflict
nature
imagination
Mood
confused
intrigued
reflective
Type
literary
descriptive
When to use this quote
- writing inspiration
- creative brainstorming
- mental health reflection
Key Concepts
symbolism
psychology
absurdity
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the chaotic setting reveal about the narrator’s mind?
- How can absurdity help process real emotions?
A Different Perspective
The imagery may overwhelm, making the message unclear.
![“Salvador [Dali] was brought up in Spain, a country colored by the legends of Hannibal, El Greco, and Cervantes. I was brought up in Ohio, a region steeped in the tradition of Coxey's Army, the Anti-Saloon League, and William Howard Taft.” quote by James Thurber](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f6b/james-thurber-1534_army_salvador-dali-was-brought-up-in-spain-a_39625.jpg)
