In "Lost in the Cosmos: The Last Self-Help Book," Walker Percy explores the complexity of human identity, emphasizing that individuals embody a multitude of roles and characteristics. He suggests that one's identity is multifaceted, encompassing both admirable and less favorable traits. This perspective highlights the contradictory nature of human existence, where individuals can simultaneously be seen as heroes and villains.

Percy's quote reflects his belief that all these signifiers—rascal, hero, craven, and loyal—are relevant to our understanding of self. There is an acceptance of this inner complexity, suggesting that everyone contains elements of both virtue and vice. It invites readers to embrace their entire being, recognizing that our identities are not singular but rather a tapestry of conflicting traits.