In "The Sheltering Sky," Paul Bowles reflects on the nature of life and death. He points out that while death is an inevitable part of existence, the uncertainty of its arrival gives us a false sense of endlessness concerning our experiences. This illusion allows us to perceive life as an infinite journey, where we can endlessly cherish moments and experiences without fully acknowledging their limits.

Bowles emphasizes the importance of recognizing that our experiences are finite. For example, he suggests that even something as beautiful as watching a full moon rise can only happen a limited number of times in our lives. This awareness can deepen our appreciation for the moments we have, urging us to live more consciously in the present.