In Denis Johnson's "Train Dreams," there is a powerful depiction of a man's acute awareness of another's presence. Before she reveals herself, he can feel her movements in the space around him, suggesting a deep connection or sensitivity to her being. This sense of awareness is so strong that it rivals the sensation of someone casting a shadow in the light.
The passage emphasizes the protagonist's profound intuition and emotional perception, highlighting how intimately he can perceive someone else's existence, even without visual confirmation. The writing captures the essence of human connections, showcasing the often unspoken bond that allows one person to sense another’s presence in an almost spiritual manner.