In Roxane Gay's book "Hunger," she grapples with her sense of self and presence in a world that often feels overwhelming. Despite her desire to remain unnoticed and to hide, she finds that her physicality commands attention, which can be both intimidating and uncomfortable for her. This push and pull reflects her struggle with body image and societal expectations.

Gay's poignant realization about her presence captures the conflict many face between wanting to conform to invisibility and the reality of being noticed. Her journey in "Hunger" delves into the complexities of her relationship with her body, revealing an intense yearning for control and acceptance in a world that often overlooks the intricacies of individual experiences.