In the narrative of "Birdsong" by Sebastian Faulks, the protagonist experiences a sudden resurgence of intense emotions and desires that had been dormant for a long time. These feelings evoke a longing for deeper connection and authenticity as she yearns for someone to awaken aspects of herself that she had suppressed over the years. This internal struggle reveals a complex relationship with her own identity and emotions.

Her desire for this person transcends mere attraction; it is tied to a wish to shatter the false persona she has created. She finds herself torn between the safety of her constructed self and the thrill of vulnerability that comes with genuine intimacy. This conflict embodies a universal theme of exploring one's true self amid the constraints of societal expectations and personal fears.