In Eudora Welty's "The Collected Stories," the character reflects on the nature of speech and memory, suggesting that some words are ephemeral, lacking substance or permanence. The phrase paints a picture of comments that are momentarily engaging yet ultimately forgettable, much like smoke that dissipates quickly into the air.

This observation underscores the idea that some utterances, while seemingly profound at the moment, do not leave a lasting impression. They can be interpreted as spontaneous thoughts that, despite their inspiration, fail to resonate deeply with others. The quote invites readers to ponder the value of words and the fleeting nature of conversation.