The quote reflects the profound connection and understanding between humans and animals. It suggests that while humans often perceive animals as having a different kind of consciousness that is difficult to grasp, there’s an unsettling familiarity in their gaze that intrigues and disturbs. This notion emphasizes the mystery that surrounds animal awareness, which is instinctual and foreign to human experiences.
The haunting nature of the "dark-glass" gaze indicates a deeper recognition of their shared existence, hinting at a boundary that humans strive to cross in understanding the essence of life beyond their own. Vollmann's work invites readers to confront their curiosity and fears regarding what lies beneath the surface of animal perception and to acknowledge the complexities of interspecies relationships.