# Diamond and Ruby explained — At the Back of the North Wind

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

## What happens

On a Friday night, with the family having little to eat, Diamond hears North Wind calling him and is led to the stable, where he overhears a heated argument between the two horses, old Diamond and Ruby. Ruby confesses to intentionally laming himself to grow fat and be presentable for his master, claiming to be an angel-horse, which leaves old Diamond incredulous and young Diamond pondering.

## Themes in this chapter

### Moral Growth Through Adversity

Diamond's quiet observation of the horses' conflict and Ruby's confession about intentional lameness prompts reflection on honesty, duty, and the nature of suffering.

### Duality of Nature

The contrast between old Diamond's hardworking honesty and Ruby's deceptive laziness, as well as Ruby's claim to be an angel-horse, explores the dual aspects of character and identity.

## Character check-ins

### Diamond

Listens to the horses' conversation after being led to the stable by North Wind.

### North Wind

Calls Diamond to the stable, though she remains unseen.

### Ruby

Argues with old Diamond, confesses to intentionally laming himself, and claims to be an angel-horse.

### Joseph

Mentioned as the master who feeds and spares Ruby, and whose family is struggling.

## Key lines

> It is a strange thing how pain of seeing the suffering of those we love will sometimes make us add to their suffering by being cross with them.

It is odd how the distress of watching loved ones suffer can sometimes cause us to treat them harshly, worsening their pain.

_Reflects on human behavior under stress and the lack of faith that leads to unkindness._

> I meant to do it, Diamond.

I intentionally caused my own lameness.

_Ruby's confession reveals his deliberate deception to grow fat and appear healthy for his master's return._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/at_the_back_of_the_north_wind_se/chapters/xxxii-diamond-and-ruby
- 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