In Cormac McCarthy's "The Sunset Limited," the narrative conveys a deep sense of existential emptiness. The speaker reflects on the forms around them—objects and beings that have lost their inherent meaning and substance, leaving only hollow shapes that exist without purpose. This bleak perception suggests a world filled with lifeless representations, devoid of vitality or significance.

The speaker questions the value of engaging with these empty forms, portraying a struggle with the lack of meaning in life and communication. The imagery of a man or other objects existing in a "howling void" emphasizes the isolation and despair that accompany such realizations. Ultimately, it raises profound inquiries about the nature of existence and the desire for connection in a seemingly indifferent universe.