In Joyce Carol Oates' "Lovely, Dark, Deep," the protagonist experiences a profound disconnection from her past, as symbolized by her reaction to her favorite foods. These once-enjoyed items now evoke feelings of nausea and estrangement, akin to encountering old friends who have changed in ways that are unsettling and unfamiliar. This imagery highlights a sense of loss and the unavoidable passage of time, where comfort and familiarity transform into sources of discomfort.

The metaphor of old friends representing memories that no longer resonate also speaks to the idea of identity and personal change. Just as the foods have lost their appeal, so too have certain aspects of her past, indicating a complex emotional landscape that is marked by nostalgia intertwined with discomfort. Oates captures the essence of how time alters perceptions and connections, leading to a profound realization of self and the inevitability of change.