In Jodi Picoult's novel "My Sister's Keeper," the protagonist expresses a deep sense of connection to places that are overlooked and neglected. This longing reflects a desire for understanding and acceptance, paralleling her own feelings of isolation and being underestimated by those around her. Such spaces evoke emotions of nostalgia and a yearning to be seen, just as she navigates her complicated family dynamics.
The quote suggests that the character relates to environments that mirror her struggle, highlighting themes of abandonment and the search for identity in a world where she feels invisible. As she seeks out these "big, hollow" places, it becomes clear that her journey is not just about physical locations but also about finding a sense of belonging and recognition in her life.