In the book "Prep" by Curtis Sittenfeld, the character Gates Medkowski reflects on the nature of self-perception versus how others view us. While individuals often see themselves as unique and complex, from the outside, they may simply appear as a collective group driven by similar adolescent desires and needs. This illustrates the disconnect between personal identity and external perception.

This quote highlights a common theme in adolescence, where the struggle for individuality is juxtaposed with the reality of being categorized or generalized by others. It serves to remind readers that the journey of self-discovery is often influenced by societal views, as well as the common experiences shared during teenage years.