This excerpt poignantly depicts a moment of fragile solace in a time of despair. The act of taking deep breaths signifies an attempt to regain control or to find calm amidst chaos — perhaps emotional, mental, or situational. The longing to sleep reveals a desire to escape from the harsh realities of life, highlighting how sometimes the only perceived refuge from pain is unconsciousness or dreams. The notion that in sleep, one can find peace is an intimate reminder of the comfort that dreams and the subconscious can offer, especially when facing loss or loneliness. The dream about dead friends underscores a yearning not just for rest, but for connection and remembrance. It emphasizes how memories, even painful ones, serve as a testament to meaningful relationships and the human need for companionship. The hope that, until sunrise, one might feel less alone provides a bittersweet image of temporary relief from solitude, suggesting that the individual’s emotional state is burdened by grief. Overall, this passage poignantly captures the delicate balance between pain and the instinct to find peace and comfort in small, fleeting moments — whether through sleep, memories, or hope for the future. It resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced loss and has sought even brief respite from heartache. *(Guardian) - author: ---Alex London---