The excerpt highlights the struggle of the protagonist, who is caught between the realms of imagination and a terrifying reality. He senses that his mind is betraying him, creating a vivid illusion that envelops his surroundings, including the ship and its passengers. This dreamlike state contrasts sharply with the looming horror outside, symbolized by the ominous figure of the Porroh man, which disrupts his fantasy and reminds him of the harsh truth.

In an effort to reconnect with reality, the protagonist engages in self-destructive actions, testing the limits of his sensory perceptions. Through touching, tasting, and even inflicting pain upon himself, he seeks to confirm his existence and confront the undeniable terror represented by the Porroh man. This internal conflict illustrates the complexities of fear and the desperate need for grounding in a world that feels increasingly surreal.