The quote reflects a poignant transition into adulthood, emphasizing the irreversible journey one takes when leaving childhood behind. In "Finding Baba Yaga," Jane Yolen captures this theme through her narrative, illustrating the challenges and transformations that accompany growing up. The idea of a 'long road' suggests that this journey is filled with experiences that shape identity and understanding.

The phrase "from which none of us returns" underscores the finality of this passage, indicating that once one embraces adulthood, they cannot revert back to the simplicity of youth. Yolen's work resonates with readers who have traversed similar paths, offering a blend of nostalgia and acceptance regarding the complexities of life's transitions.