In Wallace Stegner's "Angle of Repose," the narrator reflects on the complexities of life, struggling between the extremes of death and endless suffering. He contemplates the idea of finding a balance, represented metaphorically by intersecting lines. This imagery conveys the hope that exists within the struggle, suggesting that there is potential for stability and support, even if it is not perfect or enduring. The narrator acknowledges that life often leads to imperfections, symbolized by a 'false arch' which lacks a crucial support, the keystone.

The passage speaks to the universal human desire for connection and understanding, illustrating that amidst life's uncertainties, one can seek solace in relationships that provide some measure of support. However, it also conveys a sense of resignation, acknowledging that many may only achieve an imperfect structure due to life's complexities. The mention of the 'keystone' symbolizes those rare individuals who find true fulfillment, while most navigate through their experiences with a sense of longing for something more substantial.