In this excerpt from Paul Bowles' "The Sheltering Sky," a character reflects on the protective nature of the sky, which shields individuals from the terrifying unknowns beyond. The idea suggests that while the sky offers a sense of safety, it also conceals deeper fears and dangers that might be lurking just above. As she contemplates this notion, a sense of unease begins to stir within her, illustrating the tension between feeling secure and facing one's innermost fears.

The character's unwavering gaze at the "solid emptiness" of the sky evokes a profound internal struggle. There is an ominous anticipation of an impending rupture that could expose the horrors hidden beyond the sky's facade. The metaphor of the "giant maw" hints at an overwhelming force that could break free at any moment, emphasizing the fragile line between safety and exposure to the darker aspects of existence. This passage captures the complexity of human emotion and the ever-present threat of the unknown.