In the book "Time of Your Life" by Cecelia Ahern, the narrative illustrates a stark contrast in how people navigate their lives compared to the past. Instead of carrying a few personal belongings, individuals have adopted a more superficial approach, characterized by the insignificance of material items. They are seen holding disposable cardboard cups filled with Starbucks coffee, representing a society focused on convenience and consumerism.
This imagery highlights a shift in values, where people's identity is tied not to meaningful possessions but to branded experiences. Holding a file number emphasizes the idea of being part of a system, reducing individual uniqueness to mere statistics. The juxtaposition of the past's emotional connection to belongings with the current era's detachment showcases a critical perspective on modern life.