Exercise: "The Mud Below" by: Annie Proulx

In this scene from “The Mud Below”, Proulx illustrates a rodeo landscape with an instilled distinctive and image-laden style that spews a western atmosphere. The scene paints a picture of Diamond, the main character “[keeping] his butt cocked to one side, his feet up on the chute rails so the bull couldn't grind on his leg, brad him up, so that if it thrashed he could get over the rope in a hurry.” “[Taking] the end, made his wrap, brought the rope around the back of his hand and over the palm a second time, wove it between his third and fourth fingers, pounded the rosined glove fingers down over it and into his palm.” These cautious and possibly-dangerous scenes suggests that Diamond's lifestyle bears excitement and adventure, and also great risks. His excitement and enjoyment can be shown when “the time came closer and he slapped his face forcefully, bringing the adrenaline roses up on his cheeks...” Whatever Diamond is doing, no complaint or struggle is expressed, and when his adrenaline “roses up on his cheeks”, perhaps his appreciation for rodeo life rises too.