I am not generally a wearer of perfume, preferring to smell of plain soap and my natural musk, but, were it possible to purchase a bottle in which the scent of new pencil shavings and the petroleum reek of a freshly rubbed eraser were combined, I would happily douse myself with it on a daily basis.
The narrator expresses a strong personal preference for simple scents, favoring the freshness of plain soap and their own natural scent over wearing traditional perfumes. However, they have a unique desire for a specific fragrance that evokes nostalgic and comforting memories associated with school supplies. This unconventional scent combines the smell of new pencil shavings with the petroleum aroma of fresh erasers, illustrating a deep connection to those sensory experiences.
This quote reflects themes of individuality and the significance of personal memories tied to smells. The desire for such a scent emphasizes a longing for simpler times and highlights how certain fragrances can evoke powerful feelings. The narrator's preference challenges conventional notions of perfume, showcasing a unique perspective on identity and nostalgia within the context of the story in "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine."
