In the narrative, the protagonist has a profound realization about the nature of reality. By lighting a candle across the room, he perceives everything around him as merely flat surfaces, akin to a screen. This revelation suggests that the depth and dimension he once believed to be real are merely illusions, with the candlelight symbolizing deeper layers of existence. The light becomes a metaphorical breach, hinting at a greater reality that lies beyond the visual constraints.
The imagery of pinpricks of light as "gashes" implies a connection to an unseen world teeming with activity and vibrancy. The protagonist understands that colors and the hustle of life are merely shadows of entities engaging in diverse activities within this hidden realm. This concept challenges the perception of existence, urging a contemplation of the unseen forces that shape our understanding of reality.