In Margaret Atwood's "Surfacing," the protagonist observes a transformation in someone close to her, noting how they have become tainted by external influences, likening it to a disease. This imagery suggests a deep sense of loss and deterioration, as the person seems to be obscured by everything that has been imposed on them from the outside, losing their authentic self. The comparison to mange or lichen emphasizes the pervasive and damaging nature of these influences.

The protagonist feels helpless in the face of this transformation, recognizing that restoring the person's true identity will require significant time and effort. There is a sense of urgency and sorrow in her reflections, as she wishes to uncover the essence of who this person once was, but acknowledges the challenge of peeling away the layers of distortion that have taken hold. This struggle resonates with broader themes of identity and authenticity in a world filled with external pressures.