In her essay "Slouching Towards Bethlehem," Joan Didion reflects on the universal experience of questioning one's place in the world, particularly during young adulthood. She highlights that people often grapple with existential doubts, fearing that their struggles are unique, despite the reality that many share similar feelings. This introspection is common among those in their early twenties, who may feel isolated in their experiences even when surrounded by others.

Didion emphasizes the complexity of youth, portraying it as a time marked by both confusion and self-discovery. The feeling that one's emotional turmoil is unprecedented, regardless of evidence to the contrary, illustrates the intensity of youth’s convictions. These mixed blessings of youth create a sense of both identity and alienation, prompting individuals to seek understanding in a seemingly chaotic world.