The quote reflects a sense of detachment and emptiness in the speaker's existence, suggesting that they lack a meaningful internal world or personal depth. They compare themselves to a hermit crab, moving from one 'shell' or external identity to another, indicating a life that is transient and without true attachment or intimacy. This metaphor illustrates the speaker's feeling of being shaped by their surroundings rather than having a stable, authentic self.

Furthermore, the idea of existing in others' shells emphasizes a reliance on external influences rather than cultivating an inner life. The speaker acknowledges the fleeting nature of their connections, as they come and go without leaving a lasting impact. This transient existence might hint at a broader commentary on relationships and identity, suggesting that true selfhood is lost when one solely inhabits the roles shaped by others, as seen in the context of Oates' work in "Carthage."