The excerpt from Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian, or the Evening Redness in the West" conveys a sense of stillness and isolation in the open countryside. This tranquility is appealing to those fleeing from danger, as the calm atmosphere provides a refuge. The absence of wind and noise creates a serene environment that contrasts sharply with the threats posed by nearby mountains or other obstacles that might conceal enemies.
The imagery highlights the vulnerability and the precarious nature of survival in such vast landscapes. In this setting, the openness allows fugitives to find solace away from the menacing presence of potential adversaries. The landscape becomes both a sanctuary and a reminder of the lurking dangers that can emerge from the shadows, underscoring the constant tension between safety and threat in a lawless world.