In this excerpt from Sylvia Plath's "The Bell Jar," the narrator engages in a moment of introspection, reflecting on the changes in her friend Buddy. She notices a shift in his demeanor, indicating a deeper complexity in his character that contrasts starkly with the carefree person she once knew. The grave expression on his face suggests that he has faced challenges and disappointments, revealing a more vulnerable side to him.

The use of the phrase "face of a man who often does not get what he wants" highlights Buddy's struggles and the weight of his experiences. This transformation alters the narrator's perception of him, marking a poignant moment in their relationship where she grapples with the impact of life's hardships on the people around her.