The quote "When the Papayuna is pining you need to call home" from Cormac McCarthy's "Cities of the Plain" reflects a pivotal moment in the narrative, emphasizing the importance of connection and nostalgia. The Papayuna, a symbol of longing, suggests that when one feels lost or disconnected, reaching out to one's roots or home becomes essential for emotional solace.

This expression encapsulates the broader themes of the novel, which deal with the search for identity and the human need for belonging. McCarthy's work often explores the complexities of human relationships and the struggle between personal desires and the pull of the past, making this quote particularly resonant in conveying the deep-seated yearning for home and the comfort it provides amidst life's challenges.