In Azar Nafisi's "Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books," the author reflects on the impact of the revolution on Mahshid's sense of identity and solitude. Prior to the revolution, Mahshid wore the scarf as a symbol of her personal choice and faith, which gave her a sense of pride in her isolation. The revolutionary forces changed the meaning of her choice, as it then became a mandated symbol rather than a personal testament.

As the regime compelled others to adopt the scarf, Mahshid's individuality was diminished, and her previously meaningful decision lost significance. This shift highlights the emptiness that can accompany enforced conformity, demonstrating how the revolution, instead of alleviating loneliness, intensified it for Mahshid. The change from voluntary expression to obligatory imposition reveals the complexities of personal identity in the face of political upheaval.