In Wallace Stegner's novel "Crossing to Safety," the author vividly describes a snowstorm in New Mexico, creating a serene yet captivating atmosphere. He paints a picture of thick snow blanketing the surroundings, transforming roads into unrecognizable paths and covering adobe structures while adding a layer of beauty to the piñon and junipers. This imagery sets a tranquil yet intense mood, reflecting the weight and calmness of the storm.

Just as the scene unfolds with the heavy snow, the narrative takes an unexpected turn when there is a sudden tapping at the door. This moment introduces an element of suspense, breaking the serene ambiance created by the snow, and hints at the arrival of something significant in the midst of nature's quiet chaos. Stegner masterfully weaves together the elements of the environment with the human experience, suggesting that even in the calm of a storm, life continues to present challenges and surprises.