Something like that is as bad or as good as a telephone ringing in the night: either way, you're not as alone as you think.
In Barbara Kingsolver's "Pigs in Heaven," the quote reflects on the feeling of connection and presence that can unexpectedly emerge in our lives. It suggests that regardless of our circumstances, we are often accompanied by the thoughts or influences of others, even if it's not immediately apparent. The ringing telephone symbolizes the interruptions that remind us we are not isolated; there are voices and connections outside of our solitary experiences.
This...