In the book "Rachel's Holiday" by Marian Keyes, the protagonist, Rachel, reflects on her tumultuous life. She feels that her existence has been a disaster, marked by financial ruin and a lack of material wealth, with only a collection of ill-fitting shoes to represent her past. This portrayal highlights her feelings of emptiness and disappointment after years characterized by reckless spending and poor choices.

Rachel also grapples with her lack of employment and qualifications, which underscores her sense of failure and dissatisfaction. As she comes to terms with her solitary life, devoid of any meaningful relationships or achievements, Rachel’s story begins to explore themes of personal growth and the quest for happiness amidst adversity.