In "The God of Small Things," Arundhati Roy explores the theme of disconnection from one's past. The characters find themselves lost and unable to access their own history, symbolizing a deeper struggle with identity and memory. Their inability to return to a place of understanding is emphasized by the metaphor of footprints being swept away, indicating that their past experiences have been erased or rendered inaccessible.

This imagery highlights a sense of entrapment and confusion, suggesting that the characters are not just facing external challenges but are also grappling with internal turmoil. The struggle to understand their heritage and navigate their present lives reflects the broader themes of the book, where personal and social histories intertwine, influencing the characters' fates in profound ways.