The quote captures a very specific moment in time, marked by the swift arrival of dusk. The setting—right after 7 P.M. in October—evokes a sense of transition, both in the natural world and perhaps in the narrative itself. October evenings carry a particular mood; the sweet melancholy of autumn with its shortening days, the cooler air, and the anticipation of approaching winter. There is a quiet intensity in the phrase "Dusk was falling quickly," suggesting a sudden change or the closing of daylight that can parallel emotional or thematic shifts within the story.

Patricia Highsmith's choice to specify the time and month grounds the scene in a tangible reality, making it easier for readers to immerse themselves in the atmosphere. This temporal detail also adds to the suspense or mood, a hallmark of Highsmith's writing, where environment often mirrors internal tension. The falling dusk can symbolize uncertainty or the onset of darker events, which is fitting for a work titled A Dog's Ransom, implying a narrative likely filled with conflict and mystery.

This brief yet vivid description reminds readers of the beauty and impermanence of moments, how a single evening encapsulates inevitable change. It invites contemplation on how the passage of time influences both setting and mood, impacting characters and plot alike. Overall, the scene subtly sets a tone that is ripe for exploration—be it psychological depth, mystery, or the cyclical nature of life itself.