It's the essence of a degenerating mind periodically, to lose all sense of continuous self, and therefore any regard for what others think of your lack of continuity.
In Ian McEwan's novel "Saturday," the protagonist struggles with the concept of identity and the effects of mental decline. The idea of a deteriorating mind is illustrated through the protagonist's disconnection from a continuous sense of self, leading to a fragmented perception of reality. This disconnection causes a diminished concern for others' opinions regarding their inconsistencies and erratic behavior.
The quote emphasizes the unsettling nature of losing one's identity and the...