In "The Handsome Man's Deluxe Café," Alexander McCall Smith explores the theme of perspective and understanding through the metaphor of darkness and light. He suggests that perceptions of a situation can be limited, much like how all cats appear grey in the dark. This highlights the importance of clarity and insight when evaluating circumstances. The metaphor indicates that without sufficient illumination, it can be challenging to discern the true nature of things.

The author encourages readers to consider how their own viewpoints and knowledge can affect their understanding of a situation. Just as light reveals the colors and nuances of a cat, so too does knowledge and insight reveal the complexities of life's scenarios. By emphasizing the relationship between perception and illumination, McCall Smith invites us to seek out the light in our own experiences, enabling a more profound understanding of the world around us.