In Cormac McCarthy's "Cities of the Plain," the exploration of self-awareness takes center stage. The quote, "If we do not know ourselves in the waking world, what chance in dreams?" suggests that understanding our true identities in reality is crucial before we can comprehend our subconscious thoughts and desires. It implies that our inner lives are deeply tied to our experiences and perceptions in the real world.

This idea resonates with the complexities of human existence, emphasizing that the clarity of our waking self directly influences our dreams and aspirations. Without this self-awareness, we may find ourselves lost, unable to navigate even our innermost thoughts, leading to a disconnection between our conscious realities and the messages of our dreams.