The quote questions the reason behind placing value on beauty when it is fleeting and superficial. It suggests that beauty is merely an outer layer, a façade that conceals deeper truths and emptiness underneath. This perspective invites reflection on the nature of beauty and its significance in our lives.

The author, Jennifer L. Armentrout, through her work 'Obsidian', emphasizes that focusing too much on external beauty can lead to a hollow understanding of oneself. Instead of chasing after a temporary ideal, it prompts us to look beyond appearances and seek deeper, more meaningful qualities.