In Paul Bowles' "The Sheltering Sky," the protagonist reflects on the peculiarities of the sky, which evokes feelings of both protection and mystery. The sky is perceived as a solid barrier, offering safety from an unknown beyond. This notion suggests an interplay between the known and the unknown, capturing a sense of existential contemplation.

The quote conveys a profound sense of isolation and the vastness of existence, hinting at the void that lies beyond our immediate reality. It juxtaposes the comforting nature of the sky with the eerie darkness that represents the unknown, evoking a feeling of vulnerability amidst life's uncertainties.