In this passage, Nabokov draws a comparison between a character named Gregor and a beetle, highlighting their shared brown coloration. However, he emphasizes that Gregor's physical attributes extend beyond this similarity, describing his body as having a convex belly and a hard back. The beetle's wings, hidden beneath its protective casing, symbolize untapped potential that Gregor remains oblivious to, indicating a disconnect between appearance and capability.

The observation suggests that just like some individuals in society, referred to as Gregors or Joes and Janes, may be unaware of their own strengths or abilities. Nabokov seems to imply that if people recognized their potential, akin to discovering hidden wings, they could soar beyond their current limitations. This reflection on self-awareness invites readers to contemplate their own latent qualities and possibilities for growth.