Ever and ever their hands tried to get rid of these flames Gustave Dore (1832-1883)

The drawing presents a scene of profound suffering and torment, rendered in stark monochrome. A vast throng of figures occupies the lower portion of the composition, their bodies contorted in postures of anguish and despair. They appear to be engaged in a frantic struggle against an unseen force, their limbs flailing as if attempting to extinguish flames that are not visibly depicted but implied by their actions. The density of the crowd creates a sense of claustrophobia and overwhelming misery.
A torrential downpour dominates the upper portion of the image, its relentless cascade further intensifying the atmosphere of distress. The rain appears almost like another layer of punishment, adding to the physical discomfort of those below. It also serves to obscure any potential horizon line, emphasizing the figures’ entrapment within this desolate landscape.
Positioned on a rocky outcrop overlooking the scene stands a solitary figure, clad in dark robes. He is clearly distinct from the suffering throng; his posture suggests observation rather than participation. His gaze is directed towards the chaos below, conveying an expression that might be interpreted as pity, resignation, or perhaps even detached judgment. The verticality of his stance contrasts sharply with the horizontal sprawl of the figures, reinforcing his separation and elevated perspective.
The artist’s use of line work is particularly noteworthy. Fine, closely spaced lines create a sense of texture and depth within the crowd, while broader strokes define the contours of the landscape and the solitary figure. The overall effect is one of intense visual drama and emotional weight.
Subtly, the drawing explores themes of punishment, regret, and the consequences of transgression. The absence of explicit imagery regarding the cause of their suffering allows for a degree of ambiguity; these figures are condemned to an eternal cycle of struggle and despair, seemingly without hope of redemption. The lone observer’s presence introduces a layer of moral questioning – is he a witness, a guide, or something else entirely? His detachment invites contemplation on the nature of justice, compassion, and the human condition in the face of overwhelming suffering.