In "The Satanic Verses," Salman Rushdie poses a thought-provoking question about the nature of existence and suffocation by using the metaphor of drowning. He contemplates whether it is possible for beings to be harmed or overwhelmed by their own environment, such as fish drowning in water, which is typically seen as their life-sustaining element. This inquiry challenges conventional perceptions of safety and survival within familiar settings.

The author extends this metaphor to humanity, asking if individuals can indeed suffocate in air, an element that is essential for life. This deep philosophical reflection invites readers to consider the complexities of their own circumstances and how they may feel trapped or endangered within their realities. Rushdie's work encourages a reevaluation of what it means to thrive in one's environment and the potential pitfalls that can arise even in the most seemingly secure situations.