"He had always imagined the future as a higher plane of existence, a more enlightened place than the one he lived in now. It was only when he tried to leave the past behind that he realized it was a part of him, like a scar that refused to fade."
This quote from Naga's Journey reflects the theme of the past's influence on the present and the difficulty of moving on from past traumas and mistakes. The use of the metaphor of a scar suggests that the past leaves a lasting mark on an individual's identity and can continue to haunt them even when they try to move on. The idea that the future is a "higher plane of existence" suggests that the main character believes that there is a possibility for personal growth and redemption, but the realization that the past is an inextricable part of him suggests that such growth and redemption may not be easy to achieve.
"He had always thought that he was the one who did the painting, but now he realized it was the painting that did him."
This quote from Naga's Journey reflects the theme of art as a means of self-expression and self-discovery. The use of the phrase "the painting that did him" suggests that the main character has come to see his art as something that is larger than himself, and that it has a power to shape and influence his own identity. The idea that the painting is doing him rather than the other way around suggests that the main character has come to see his art as something that has a life of its own and that he is merely a conduit for its expression.
"He had always believed that the present was a fragile thing, something that needed to be protected and nurtured, like a newborn child. But now he realized that it was the past that was fragile, that needed to be protected and nurtured, because it was the past that gave the present its meaning."
This quote from Naga's Journey reflects the theme of the past's influence on the present and the importance of preserving and honoring the past in order to understand and appreciate the present. The use of the metaphor of a newborn child suggests that the present is something that is fragile and vulnerable, and that it requires care and attention in order to thrive. The idea that it is the past that gives the present its meaning suggests that the main character has come to see the past as being an integral part of the present and that it is important to remember and honor the past in order to fully understand and appreciate the present.
