First impressions have a lasting impact on our perceptions of others, often influencing our feelings and thoughts about them over time. While some initial impressions may fade, negative ones tend to linger much longer. This idea highlights how challenging it can be to overcome a bad impression, as it often clouds judgment and affects relationships, whether personal or professional.

In Joseph Heller's book "God Knows," this theme is explored, demonstrating the complex nature of human interactions and the difficulty of changing established perceptions. The notion suggests that a single negative encounter can overshadow subsequent positive experiences, illustrating the importance of making strong, positive impressions from the outset.