The quote portrays a character who is experiencing a sense of contentment and anticipation. The chewed-in smile suggests familiarity or weariness, yet it also reflects a hopeful engagement with something positive. It captures the idea that even without fully understanding a situation or wrapping up the details, there is an underlying joy and expectation present in her demeanor.

This smile symbolizes an acceptance of life's unpredictability and the warmth of new possibilities, indicating that sometimes, it's the emotion and potential behind an experience that brings happiness, rather than the clarity of the situation itself. The character embraces the unknown with a sense of optimism, hinting at deeper personal reflections that resonate throughout Alice Munro's work.