In Joan Didion's "Slouching Towards Bethlehem," she reflects on the passage of time and its impact on memories. The phrase "Everyone was younger then" highlights a sense of nostalgia, emphasizing how the innocence and vibrancy of youth adds a warm glow to the past experiences we recount. This sentiment suggests that time alters our perceptions, often making the past seem more appealing than it may have actually been.

Didion’s work invites readers to consider how our memories are shaped by the context of our lives as we age. The glow that suffuses those years serves as a reminder that while we may look back with a sense of longing, we also adapt our recollections, filtering them through the lens of our current selves. This interplay between memory and time enhances the storytelling, allowing us to connect more deeply with both the narrative and the emotions it evokes.