The character in Jeffrey Eugenides' "Middlesex" often turns to quotes as a means of coping with the events in his life. This reliance on quotations allows him to find meaning and context in various situations, helping him navigate through the complexities of real life. By adopting these sayings, he distances himself from his immediate reality and creates a framework to understand his experiences.

This escape into a world of quotes suggests a theme of avoidance and the search for identity. Rather than confronting challenges directly, he uses these phrases as a shield, illustrating how people sometimes seek solace in the wisdom of others. This coping mechanism highlights the broader struggle of individuals in dealing with personal crises, emphasizing the tension between reality and the comfort of metaphorical expressions.