The quote describes a vivid scene where Salomé observes dancers who represent butterflies, suggesting beauty and grace. However, despite their elegance, she notices imperfections, such as the dirt under their fingernails, highlighting the contrast between the surface appearance and the hidden realities beneath. This duality adds depth to the perception of the dancers, implying that even those who seem ethereal have their flaws.

This observation captures a broader theme of the novel, where beauty and reality coexist in complex ways. The dancer's external charm masks the less glamorous aspects of their lives, prompting readers to reflect on the nature of appearances versus true identity. Through Salomé’s eyes, Kingsolver invites us to consider how we often overlook the struggles behind the beauty that captivates us.