In Wallace Stegner's "The American West as Living Space," he reflects on the profound influence that the Western environment and culture have had on him as an individual. He considers the ways in which the geography and climate of the West have shaped his perceptions and artistic sensibilities, suggesting that his experiences are deeply intertwined with the region's unique characteristics. Stegner acknowledges that the West has not only conditioned him but has also molded his identity and expression.

Furthermore, Stegner emphasizes a sense of belonging to Western culture, recognizing that it is an integral part of his personality. He notes that each person contributes to the larger cultural landscape, implying that his own individual experiences and perspectives have added to this collective identity. His metaphor of culture as a collaborative pyramid illustrates how personal contributions play a role in shaping the broader cultural context of the West.