In Walker Percy’s work, he emphasizes the unique individuality of a person, suggesting that each person is a distinct being rather than just a representative of a larger group. When individuals lose their ability to express their uniqueness in a world dominated by scientific progress and technology, they feel isolated and overlooked, much like a ghost at a celebratory event. This metaphor illustrates the profound impact of modernity on personal identity and the human experience.

Furthermore, the passage highlights the modern obsession with photography as a means of affirmation against feelings of invisibility. By capturing images of themselves, people sought to validate their existence and assert their individuality, despite an underlying anxiety about their relevance in a rapidly evolving society. This need to document one’s presence underscores the struggle to maintain a sense of self amid the pressures of contemporary life.