This transformation signifies the struggles characters face in the face of threats and challenges, emphasizing the emotional weight of their experiences. It showcases how fear can strip away a person’s ability to express themselves, illustrating the deep psychological effects of their circumstances and the weight of their fears.

Ultimately, this poignant quote serves as a reflection of the human condition within the narrative, representing the moments when vulnerability takes over, and what once was a voice becomes an echo of silence. It underscores the theme of survival amidst adversity that is prevalent throughout McMurtry's work.