Generally speaking, a howling wilderness does not howl: it is the imagination of the traveler that does the howling.

Summary

This quote suggests that when people encounter unfamiliar and desolate environments, it is often their own fearful thoughts and imagination that amplify the perceived hostility or danger. The "howling wilderness" does not actually emit any literal sounds but rather evokes a sense of dread due to the traveler's anxious anticipation. It implies that our interpretations of external circumstances are often influenced heavily by our subjective perspective and mental state, emphasizing the power of our imagination in shaping our experiences.

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