In "The Virgin Suicides," Jeffrey Eugenides explores themes of isolation and obsession through the lens of a narrator who becomes captivated by the mysterious Lisbon sisters. The phrase suggests a profound level of focus that transcends personal existence, indicating how consuming the fascination can be. It illustrates the depth of the narrator's involvement with the sisters, as he immerses himself in their world to the point of losing his own identity.

This moment reflects the novel's broader exploration of youthful longing and the inability to connect. The intensity of the observation emphasizes the allure and tragedy of the sisters' lives, which remain enigmatic to those around them. It underscores the idea that such deep concentration on another's existence can lead to a profound sense of detachment from one's own life and experiences, capturing the haunting essence of the story.