In Roxane Gay's book "Hunger," the author expresses a deep sense of conflict with her own body. She metaphorically describes her body as a cage, highlighting the struggle and confinement she feels due to societal expectations and personal challenges. This metaphor signifies how her own experiences and choices have contributed to this sense of entrapment.

Gay reveals that for over two decades, she has been on a journey to understand and escape this self-imposed limitation. This ongoing quest illustrates her desire for freedom and acceptance, not only from societal pressures but also from her inner turmoil regarding self-image and body positivity.