In John Updike's "Pigeon Feathers and Other Stories," the author explores the concept of beauty in women, challenging conventional ideas that rely on symmetry and exaggerated features. He emphasizes that true beauty is not found in specific culturally defined traits or measurements but instead in the unique and natural form of the body, particularly the elegant curve of the spine transitioning into the buttocks.

Updike suggests that this curve represents the essence of grace and femininity, a natural flow that captures the viewer's admiration. This perspective invites readers to appreciate the subtleties of beauty beyond superficial standards, focusing instead on the intricate and personal aspects that define a woman's allure.