...fact was she knew more about them than she knew about herself, having never had the map to discover what she was like.Could she sing? {Was it nice to hear when she did?} Was she pretty? Was she a good friend? Could she have been a loving mother? A faithful wife? Have I got a sister and does she favor me? If my mother knew me would she like me? {140}
The passage reflects the internal struggle of a character grappling with her identity and self-worth. She possesses a deep understanding of others around her, yet feels disconnected from herself, lacking a clear sense of who she truly is. This disconnection raises questions about her abilities, attractiveness, and potential roles in life, such as being a friend, mother, or partner.
Her thoughts signify a longing for self-knowledge and acceptance, pointing to the universal challenge of understanding one’s own identity in contrast to how one perceives others. The mention of her mother adds a poignant layer, suggesting a desire for recognition and love that remains unfulfilled, leaving her in doubt about her own value and existence.
