The quote reflects the protagonist's deep admiration for a woman's physical beauty, emphasizing not just her face and body but also her enigmatic presence. This combination of outward allure and an elusive quality creates an intriguing complexity, suggesting that there's more to her than meets the eye. The distance mentioned hints at a separation, possibly emotional or psychological, suggesting that her beauty doesn't fully reveal her true self.

In "Lonesome Dove" by Larry McMurtry, this observation may signal the character's realization that true beauty goes beyond mere appearance. It opens up a dialogue about the nature of attraction and the understanding that deeper qualities, such as personality and depth of spirit, are essential in truly knowing someone. This complexity adds layers to how relationships are perceived and experienced in the narrative.