Then Satan first knew pain And writhed him to and fro Gustave Dore (1832-1883)

The engraving presents a dramatic scene of descent and suffering. Here we observe a figure, presumably male, in mid-fall amidst a chaotic landscape of jagged rocks and swirling dust. The composition is dominated by diagonal lines that emphasize the sense of motion and instability; the figure’s body itself forms a significant diagonal, contributing to this feeling of uncontrolled movement.
The individuals posture conveys intense agony. His limbs are contorted in an unnatural manner, suggesting both physical pain and emotional distress. One arm reaches out as if grasping for support, while his head is thrown back in what appears to be a silent scream or expression of despair. The musculature is rendered with considerable detail, highlighting the strain on his body during this tumultuous fall.
The figure’s attire adds another layer of complexity. He wears armor, suggesting a former status of power and authority now stripped away by his current predicament. A large, bat-like wing extends from his back, partially obscuring the landscape behind him. The wings intricate detailing contrasts with the rough texture of the surrounding rocks, further emphasizing the figure’s fall from grace.
The environment itself is crucial to understanding the scene. The rocky terrain appears desolate and unforgiving, devoid of any signs of life or comfort. A dark void looms in the upper portion of the image, hinting at an abyss or a realm beyond human comprehension. This backdrop reinforces the sense of isolation and hopelessness experienced by the falling figure.
Subtly, the artist uses light and shadow to amplify the emotional impact. The figure is partially illuminated, drawing attention to his suffering while leaving much of the surrounding landscape in darkness. This contrast creates a visual hierarchy that prioritizes the individual’s pain above all else.
The work seems to explore themes of loss, punishment, and the consequences of transgression. It suggests a moment of profound change – a fall from a position of power into one of suffering and despair. The depiction of physical torment is intertwined with an implied narrative of moral failure, leaving the viewer to contemplate the nature of pain, redemption, and the potential for downfall.