In "Oryx and Crake" by Margaret Atwood, the character Jimmy experiences a powerful wave of nostalgia, much like a sudden and intense hunger. This moment reflects his deep yearning for the past, suggesting that his memories and emotions are intertwined with his sense of identity. The phrase illustrates how nostalgia can affect a person, stirring up longings for lost times or experiences that once brought joy and meaning.

This connection between nostalgia and hunger highlights a human vulnerability. Just as hunger can drive people to seek out food, nostalgia compels individuals to revisit memories that provide comfort or clarity. Jimmy’s experience signifies how the past can influence one's present, revealing the complexity of memory and its emotional repercussions in the story.