The author reflects on her self-perception, describing herself as small, harmless, and lacking in conventional skills compared to others. She uses the metaphor of a marshmallow to emphasize her feeling of being soft and vulnerable in a competitive or intimidating environment. This self-image is coupled with her admission of being poor at practical tasks like shooting and chopping wood, contributing to her sense of inadequacy.

Atwood also presents an insightful realization about identity. Despite her feelings of insignificance, she recognizes that being the youngest in a formidable family, even if she feels weak, does not diminish her inherent power or status. The notion that others still see her as a dragon underscores the importance of understanding how identity is perceived by others, regardless of personal doubts.