In Nick Hornby's book "About a Boy," the protagonist grapples with feelings of frustration and bemusement regarding his unexpected fame. He reflects on how it seems that even the most unremarkable individuals are aware of his identity, which adds to his sense of alienation. This realization highlights the absurdity of popularity and the pressures that accompany it, illustrating how public recognition can often come without true understanding or connection.

The quote captures the essence of the character's irritation at societal judgments based on superficial fame. It emphasizes a theme of the novel that revolves around identity and the struggle for personal authenticity in a world where appearances are often misleading. Through this lens, Hornby explores the complexities of relationships and the longing for genuine connections amidst the chaos of external perceptions.