The passage illustrates a character's aversion to self-reflection, both literally and metaphorically. While he goes through the motions of shaving, he avoids direct eye contact with his reflection in the mirror, suggesting a deeper internal conflict. The act of shaving becomes a ritual of evasion, highlighting his discomfort with himself and perhaps indicating feelings of guilt or shame.

This moment emphasizes a sense of disconnection from one's identity. The character's preference to touch rather than see suggests a struggle with facing his own reality. It reflects the theme of introspection versus denial, revealing the complexities of the human experience and the uncomfortable truths we sometimes choose to ignore.