Tangier is depicted as a small, somewhat isolated town, characterized by its limited size and resources, much like a single entity operating independently. The phrase suggests that despite having a governing body, the town's simplicity and lack of diversity create a sense of confinement or singularity, emphasizing its small-town nature.

In "Let it Come Down," Paul Bowles illustrates how this quality affects the town's atmosphere and the experiences of its inhabitants. The description evokes a feeling of both charm and limitation, reflecting the complexities of life in a place that is both unique and restrictive.