The reflections of the character express a deep sense of wonder and despair about the mysteries of the world beyond him. He envisions ghostly ships - deathships - left to drift aimlessly, as well as massive squid navigating the ocean floor in the profound darkness. This imagery highlights both the beauty and terror of the unknown, evoking a sense of loneliness in the vastness of the sea.
Moreover, he considers the existence of another man walking with a child on a distant shore, suggesting a universal connection despite the separation. This evokes feelings of shared suffering and the indifferent nature of life, portraying how people, no matter their circumstances, endure similar struggles under the same unforgiving sun.