In Walker Percy's novel, "The Moviegoer," the protagonist captures the essence of the Midwestern landscape, describing its vast and desolate skies as the loneliest in America. This stark imagery highlights the emotional isolation and existential struggles faced by the characters living in such an environment. The emptiness of the sky reflects their inner turmoil and search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world.

As a response to the overwhelming openness and isolation outside, the characters often retreat indoors or seek refuge underground. This behavior symbolizes their desire to escape the harsh reality of their surroundings and find comfort in familiar spaces. Percy's writing explores themes of loneliness and the human condition, emphasizing how the external environment can deeply affect one's psyche and choices.