She was close in her husband's arms; she clung to him; whatever of strangeness and slowness and insularity she might find in him, none of that mattered so long as she could slip her hands beneath his coat, run her fingers over the warm smoothness of the satin back of his waistcoat, seem almost to creep into his body, find in him strength, find in the courage and kindness of her man a shelter from the perplexing world.
In this passage from Sinclair Lewis's "Main Street," the protagonist experiences a deep sense of comfort and security in her husband's embrace. Despite any feelings of distance or unfamiliarity she might perceive in him, these concerns fade away in the warmth of their connection. Her physical closeness allows her to explore his form, suggesting a profound intimacy that transcends emotional uncertainties.
In finding solace in her husband's presence, the character reveals her desire for refuge from the complexities of life. His strength and kindness provide her with a protective shield against the world's challenges, emphasizing the importance of companionship in navigating personal struggles. The tactile sensations of their embrace symbolize not only love but also the safety and reassurance she seeks amid her inner turmoil.
