Evelyn finds herself reflecting on her past as she looks at an empty ice cream carton, symbolizing a moment of nostalgia and introspection. She questions what has happened to the cheerful girl she used to be, as shown in her school photographs. This stark contrast highlights her feelings of loss and disconnection from her former self.
The quote emphasizes the theme of change and the passage of time, showing how one's youthful joy can fade into a more complicated adult reality. It invites readers to consider their own journeys and the moments that define their identities over the years.