The protagonist in Philip Roth's "Everyman" often grapples with feelings of melancholy, especially when observing couples during moments of tranquility, like the dusky evenings or leisurely Sunday afternoons. He realizes that while these scenes evoke a sense of longing and sadness in him, they are not a part of his own life. The beauty of these moments serves as a reminder of his solitude and disconnection from happiness.

This recognition of his melancholic state symbolizes a deeper reflection on life and relationships. Although he is drawn to the warmth and intimacy displayed by others, the reality is that his own experiences are colored by his feelings of melancholy. Such insights illustrate the complex nature of human emotions and the existential struggles people face, which is a central theme in Roth's work.