In Haruki Murakami's "After Dark," the narrative explores the theme of deep sleep as a metaphor for escapism. The protagonist's slumber is described as long and profound, suggesting a departure from the awareness of her everyday life. This deep sleep signifies a longing to escape from the confines of reality, reflecting a complex blend of desire and detachment.

This moment in the story captures the essence of how sleep can become a refuge from the struggles of life, allowing the character to temporarily leave behind her normal existence. Murakami uses this imagery to illustrate the allure of retreating into a dreamlike state, highlighting the contrasts between wakefulness and the intoxicating realm of the unconscious.