This quote suggests a stark contrast between two states of being: one of lowliness and one of aspiration or striving. The imagery of "crawling upward" implies an attempt to rise or improve one's position, while "grovel on the ground" evokes a sense of submission, humility, or even desperation. The phrase indicates that despite their efforts to elevate themselves, they maintain a posture that signifies weakness or servility. This can reflect a deeper commentary on the nature of ambition and societal structures, suggesting that some individuals may remain bound by their circumstances or past behaviors even as they seek to advance. Ultimately, it highlights the struggle between aspiration and the limits of one's current state.
Quote By: Faulkner