In "The Lowland" by Jhumpa Lahiri, the protagonist experiences a deep yearning for rest that eludes him. Despite being surrounded by a conducive environment for sleep, he finds himself unable to fully immerse in the solace he desires. The metaphor of water reflects his struggle; it's as if he’s in a state where he can wade through his thoughts but cannot fully dive into peace.

This imagery illustrates the emotional turmoil he is encountering, revealing a profound sense of longing and unrest. His inability to sleep symbolizes the larger themes of searching for tranquility amidst chaos and the complexities of dealing with unresolved feelings and memories.