In the book "Everyman" by Philip Roth, the author explores the transition from youth to adulthood and how perspectives on beauty and worth evolve. When one is young, there is a strong emphasis on physical appearance and how one is perceived externally by others. This external focus often dominates a young person's self-worth and identity.

As individuals mature, their priorities shift significantly. The narrative suggests that with age, people tend to value the inner qualities of a person, such as character and integrity, rather than their physical looks. Ultimately, Roth highlights this deeper reflection on human worth that comes with life experiences and the aging process.