The quote emphasizes the shifting perception of cosmetics in the context of identity. Initially viewed as unnecessary adornments, they transform into essential tools for self-definition, particularly in situations where one's sense of self is questioned. This suggests that external appearance can play a critical role in how individuals understand and express their identities.

In Jhumpa Lahiri's "Interpreter of Maladies," this line reflects the deeper themes of the narrative, where characters grapple with their cultural identities and personal experiences. Makeup becomes a means of navigating societal expectations and personal realizations, highlighting the complex relationship between outward appearances and inner truths.