The quote reflects the existential themes present in Albert Camus' novel "The Stranger." The protagonist's detached reaction to the death of his mother highlights his indifference to societal norms and emotions. This moment sets the tone for the novel, illustrating the absurdity of life and the human experience.

Camus uses this scenario to explore the concept of absurdism, where individuals confront the meaningless nature of existence. The protagonist's uncertainty about when his mother died symbolizes the disconnection between personal feelings and conventional expectations, urging readers to question the meaning they assign to life events.