In Cormac McCarthy's "Outer Dark," a poignant moment arises as a character reflects on her relationships with others. Her declaration to avoid welcoming strangers into her life while she is away underscores a deep sense of caution and mistrust. This highlights her isolation and the emotional barriers she has built to protect herself from the unknown.
The character’s sigh reveals her resignation to loneliness, suggesting that everyone feels like a stranger to her. This sentiment illustrates the broader theme of alienation present in the novel, emphasizing how personal experiences shape our perceptions of others and the world around us.