The coastal setting of Maine in November is described as desolate and inhospitable, creating an atmosphere that feels forsaken. The wind is intensifying, contributing to the bleakness of the scene, where the landscape appears more suited to the wild gulls than to people. The imagery suggests a sense of loss or abandonment, as if the humans who once inhabited this space have vanished unexpectedly.

This portrayal evokes a strong sense of isolation, highlighting the stark contrast between the natural elements and the absence of life. The mention of the gulls soaring over the old pier reinforces the theme of nature reclaiming its territory, leaving behind a reminder of human presence now faded into memory. Lethem uses this vivid imagery to capture the mood of a place that feels both beautiful and eerily empty.