In Nick Hornby's book "Funny Girl," the author reflects on the societal expectations placed on women, particularly concerning names and identity. Taking a husband's name upon marriage is often seen as a traditional norm, but adopting a town's name to become its beauty queen adds another layer of complexity to a woman's identity.

This quote highlights the tension between personal choice and societal pressures. While the act of taking a husband's name may symbolize a personal commitment, embracing a town's name for a public title speaks to the broader implications of public perception and reputation, marking a significant shift in how women navigate their roles in society.