In "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd, the protagonist experiences an unsettling loneliness in the honey house. Being alone brings a profound sense of longing, particularly for the comforting sounds of her companion Rosaleen's snoring. This familiar noise, akin to the soothing rhythm of ocean waves, has become a source of comfort that she had taken for granted.

The absence of this sound creates an overwhelming silence that feels almost oppressive. The quietness transforms into a disorienting presence, suggested to vibrate with a strange hum that heightens her awareness of solitude. This introspection highlights the emotional weight of companionship and the stark reality of being alone.