In "Station Eleven" by Emily St. John Mandel, the protagonist grapples with a profound sense of regret. As he navigates his life, he realizes that he is burdened by a multitude of past mistakes, leading to a pervasive feeling of remorse that constantly follows him. This emotional struggle manifests as a swarm of regrets, likened to moths drawn to a flame, illustrating the overwhelming nature of his sentiments.

This metaphor emphasizes how the weight of his decisions overshadows his present, affecting his relationships and self-perception. The imagery of moths highlights the inescapable pull of regret, suggesting that despite his desire to move forward, he remains tethered to his past. This internal conflict presents a central theme in the narrative, reflecting the complexities of human experience in the face of loss and survival.