In "Station Eleven," Emily St. John Mandel explores the theme of adulthood as a state of being where individuals often navigate life without truly engaging with it. The phrase "Adulthood's full of ghosts" suggests that many people exist in a state of disconnection, going through the motions much like sleepwalkers. This metaphor highlights the emotional and existential emptiness present in their lives, where they might appear functional on the surface but lack genuine involvement or awareness of their circumstances.

The comparison to high-functioning sleepwalkers emphasizes the idea that people can maintain their daily responsibilities while being emotionally absent. In a world filled with modern distractions and pressures, individuals may forget to connect with their realities and the people around them. Mandel's narrative invites readers to reflect on the richness of life that often goes unnoticed and encourages a deeper awareness of one's existence amidst the chaos of adulthood.