In the novel "The Invention of Wings" by Sue Monk Kidd, the quote reflects the duality of identity experienced by the protagonist. It illustrates the internal struggle between societal expectations and personal truth. One person's mind is shaped by what is perceived by others, often conforming to the roles imposed by society, while the other reveals their authentic self and individual thoughts. This tension speaks to the broader human experience of navigating external perceptions and inner realities.

This duality emphasizes the theme of self-discovery throughout the story. It suggests that individuals often grapple with the disparity between how they present themselves to the world and who they truly are inside. The characters' journeys highlight the importance of reconciling these different aspects of the self, searching for personal freedom, and ultimately asserting their true identities against societal confines.