In Jhumpa Lahiri's novel, "The Lowland," the protagonist finds comfort in the experience of flying. The quote reflects a desire for detachment and a sense of serenity that comes from being high above the ground. Being on the plane offers an escape from the chaos of life below, allowing her to embrace a moment of stillness, albeit an illusory one.
This preference for the plane symbolizes a yearning for freedom and the complexities of identity, inviting readers to consider the contrasts between her airborne experience and the realities of her life on the ground. It encapsulates her struggles with connection and belonging, highlighting a deeper emotional journey.