In "The Bluest Eye," Toni Morrison presents the struggles of a young black girl who feels deeply unattractive and yearns for beauty, symbolized by blue eyes. Her desire reflects a profound internal conflict, as she grapples with societal standards that equate worth with whiteness and conventionality. This yearning highlights the painful impact of racism and self-perception on her identity.

The narrator's emotions transform as he witnesses her plight, feeling both outrage and a newfound strength. He wishes he could perform miracles, illustrating a deep empathy and desire to change the heartbreaking reality she faces. This moment underscores the profound effects of beauty standards on individuals, especially those marginalized by race and societal norms.