The child reflects on the nature of a mysterious man who seems to connect with them in moments of solitude, reminding her of a shared past on the scaffold. In these dark, intimate settings, he shows affection and companionship that contrasts sharply with his behavior in public, where he seems detached and unrecognizable. The child's observations highlight the dichotomy between private emotion and public persona.

This juxtaposition emphasizes the theme of isolation and sadness that permeates the man's character. Despite the warmth experienced in the dark and hidden places, there exists a profound loneliness in the daylight, where societal norms prevent genuine connections. The quote encapsulates the essence of a troubled individual burdened by invisible scars, making the child's insights both poignant and deeply sympathetic.