At the Back of the North Wind · Chapter
Old Diamond explained
Diamond wakes early, climbs onto the horse Old Diamond, and is discovered by his mother.
What happens
Diamond wakes early, climbs onto the horse Old Diamond, and is discovered by his mother. He later goes on another adventure with North Wind, who appears as a young girl, and they travel together through the night.
Themes in this chapter
Innocence and Wisdom
Diamond's innocent trust in North Wind contrasts with his growing understanding of her dual nature.
Duality of Nature
North Wind appears both as a gentle girl and a fierce wolf, embodying the dual aspects of nature.
Characters to notice
- Diamond
Wakes early, climbs onto Old Diamond, and later accompanies North Wind on a nighttime journey.
- North Wind
Appears as a young girl, leads Diamond on an adventure, and transforms in size during their travels.
- Mother
Finds Diamond on the horse, lifts him down, and watches over him carefully.
- Old Sal
Mentioned as the horse Diamond rides.
Key passages
“I’ll give old Diamond a surprise,” thought the boy; and creeping up very softly, before the horse knew, he was astride of his back.”
The boy quietly climbed onto the horse's back to surprise him.
Diamond's playful action leads to an unexpected reaction from the horse.
“I have some rather disagreeable work to do tonight,” she said, “before I get out to sea, and I must set about it at once.”
North Wind announces she has unpleasant tasks to complete before heading to the sea.
Foreshadows the darker aspects of North Wind's duties.