In George Eliot's "Adam Bede," a profound observation is made about the nature of storytelling and interpretation. The quote suggests that the passage of time alters our perception and understanding of stories. As we grow and experience life, our interpretations change, making any narrative seem different upon rereading. This reflects the dynamic relationship between the reader and the text, emphasizing that personal growth and new experiences influence how we make sense of narratives.

This idea highlights the fluidity of literature; a book can evoke varying emotions and thoughts depending on the reader's experiences at different times. "Adam Bede" exemplifies this concept as it invites readers to reflect on their own transformations over time and how those transformations affect their understanding of the characters and themes. Thus, stories hold a unique power, continuously reshaped by our changing selves.