In "Ender's Game," the protagonist is portrayed as a soldier who embodies the essence of his military upbringing. The quote reflects his upbringing in a world where the concept of personal ambitions is overshadowed by the demands of war. For him, the idea of choosing a future career is alien, as survival and duty take precedence over traditional aspirations.

This perspective highlights the conditioning of young characters in the story, suggesting that their identities are shaped more by their roles in combating external threats than by personal desires. The quote speaks to the broader themes of the novel, such as the loss of childhood and the burdens of responsibility imposed by society.