In "Station Eleven" by Emily St. John Mandel, a character observes another person carefully examining her appearance, which includes her polished shoes and formal attire. This scrutiny reveals that he is mentally shifting his perception of her, reconciling his memories of her past self with the person she has become. Their encounter highlights the complexities of identity and the passage of time, as both characters navigate their changed circumstances.

This moment underscores a shared human experience of grappling with alterations in identity and relationships. The significance of appearance and memory intertwines as each character processes their own transformations, illustrating how personal histories can evolve and require re-evaluation. Mandel skillfully evokes the idea that people are not static; instead, they grow and adapt, compelling those around them to rethink their impressions and connections.