The quote highlights a deep-seated fear of losing control and identity. The character expresses anxiety about her physical and emotional states, fearing that she might expand beyond her constraints, both literally and metaphorically. This fear relates to the struggle of maintaining personal boundaries and the fear of vulnerability that often accompanies deeper emotional expression.

Additionally, the mention of talking excessively and crying points to a fear of sharing one's inner turmoil with others. It suggests a concern about being overwhelmed by emotions and the societal pressures that come with expressing oneself. Overall, the quote underlines the tension between self-containment and the desire for genuine connection, a theme prevalent in Atwood's work.