The quote "Out of obscurity I came. To obscurity I can return," from Joyce Carol Oates' book "We Were the Mulvaneys," reflects the themes of identity and the impermanence of fame. The speaker acknowledges how they emerged from a forgotten past and recognizes the possibility of slipping back into that same obscurity. This notion highlights the fragility of one's place in the world and suggests that success and visibility can be transient.

The sentiment expressed in this quote resonates with the broader human experience, where individuals often grapple with their significance and the fear of being forgotten. It serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life, where one can rise and fall in public perception. Oates captures this struggle beautifully, emphasizing that despite our achievements, the inevitability of returning to obscurity is a fundamental aspect of the human condition.