The character in this passage experiences a profound moment of liberation as he relinquishes his past, symbolized by the removal of his amulets and the cloaked godlet. By embracing the simplicity of the human heart, he begins a journey devoid of attachments, allowing everything that once defined him to fall away. This act signifies a release from his former identity, culminating in a sense of emptiness where nothing remains to hold him back.
As he walks down the street for the last time, he perceives the fading remnants of his existence. His previous life, likened to fragile shadows, dissipates into obscurity, leaving no lasting trace. The mention of rumors and idle gossip illustrates how quickly the past is forgotten, emphasizing the transient nature of memory and the inevitability of moving on. This passage reflects a powerful theme of renewal through the acceptance of impermanence.