In Nick Hornby's novel "High Fidelity," the protagonist reflects on past relationships and personal experiences, suggesting that early influences shape one's identity profoundly. The idea presented in the quote implies that if someone truly wanted to have a significant impact on another person, they should have engaged with them during their formative years. This highlights the importance of timing and context in emotional development.

The protagonist's musings reveal a sense of nostalgia and introspection, as he recognizes that experiences from a younger age have a lasting effect. This emphasizes a broader theme in the book about the complexity of love, regret, and the role of past connections in shaping who we become as individuals.