In the book "Unsheltered" by Barbara Kingsolver, the notion of categorizing events or occurrences as defining "of the century" appears misguided. The comparison suggests that contemporary times, which still hold so much promise and potential, should not be restricted by labels that limit their future possibilities. It reflects the idea that such judgments can often be premature and fail to account for the unfolding developments in society.
This perspective highlights a broader theme of growth and evolution, suggesting that the current century is just beginning its journey. Like a teenager struggling with emotions, this era has yet to realize its full potential. The metaphor of anger-management problems signifies the challenges faced during these formative years and implies that significant transformation is still on the horizon.