Old lovers go the way of old photographs, bleaching out gradually as in a slow bath of acid: first the moles and pimples, then the shadings. Then the faces themselves, until nothing remains but the general outlines.
In Margaret Atwood's "Cat's Eye," the author reflects on how past relationships fade over time, much like old photographs losing their clarity and detail. As memories decay, the little imperfections and unique traits of old lovers disappear, leaving only vague impressions. This gradual erasure speaks to the impermanence of intimacy and emotional connection, highlighting how these cherished bonds can become distant over the years.
The quote illustrates the process of nostalgia...