In Paul Bowles' "The Sheltering Sky," the journey serves as a crucial setting for self-reflection. The main character finds that traveling allows him to gain a clearer perspective on his life. Being in motion helps him detach from his usual environment, fostering a deeper understanding of his experiences and emotions.

These trips become pivotal moments for contemplation, enabling him to make significant decisions that often elude him while he remains in one place. This theme underscores how displacement can lead to personal revelations and growth, highlighting the importance of travel in the search for clarity and direction.