The quote from William Faulkner's "Absalom, Absalom!" captures a profound sense of emotional distance and stagnation in a relationship. It evokes the image of a couple resembling old married people who have lost the intimacy and excitement that once defined their bond. Instead of sharing interests or engaging conversations, all that remains is a shared existence marked by routine and a heavy silence. They are physically together but emotionally detached, merely going through the motions of life.

This depiction highlights how relationships can decay over time, where individuals may find themselves coexisting without truly connecting. The reference to the "general weight of air" and "oblivious biding earth" suggests a deep-seated emptiness, where their connection has become more about enduring the passage of time than nurturing love and companionship. It conveys a poignant reminder of the importance of communication and shared experiences in maintaining meaningful relationships.