In this passage, the character reflects on a moment of silence, watching the rain outside. This quiet observation suggests he is deep in thought, possibly dealing with the impact of his family's presence on the local community. The imagery of locals transforming into "giant dogs" conveys a sense of menace or abnormality within their environment.
The metaphor highlights the unsettling change that his family brings to the area, indicating that their existence disrupts the usual order. This moment encapsulates a profound realization about identity and the consequences of their actions in a world that seems to respond in unexpected and exaggerated ways.