In Aimee Bender's novel "The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake," the protagonist reflects on a growing disconnection with others. She recalls a time when she used to greet passengers in passing cars, but now her experiences have made her wary of people and their complex inner thoughts. This shift highlights her sense of isolation and the difficulties of understanding emotional depth in relationships.

The imagery of people exiting the bus and dispersing like billiard balls symbolizes their separation and fragmentation. It underscores the protagonist's feelings of loneliness and the challenges of making genuine connections. As she observes the world around her, she grapples with her own internal struggles and the weight of emotional burdens, leading to a poignant exploration of human relationships.