# Old Diamond explained — At the Back of the North Wind

> Chapter companion for At the Back of the North Wind by George MacDonald.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/at_the_back_of_the_north_wind_se/chapters/iii-old-diamond
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/at_the_back_of_the_north_wind_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/at_the_back_of_the_north_wind_se/chapters