The quote reflects a distinction between the themes typically explored in epic poetry and those in the modern novel, particularly highlighting a shift in narrative focus. While great epics often glorify the grandeur and chaos of war, the novel, especially in the context of "The Marriage Plot," gravitates towards more personal and intimate experiences, such as marriage. This marks a change in storytelling from the collective to the individual, emphasizing relationships and personal dilemmas over larger-than-life conflicts.

In "The Marriage Plot," Jeffrey Eugenides uses this theme to delve into the complexities of love and commitment, portraying the struggles and realities of romantic relationships. By placing marriage at the center of the narrative, Eugenides invites readers to consider the emotional and social implications of such bonds, contrasting the turbulent nature of war tales with the nuanced dynamics of personal connections. This exploration captures the essence of human experience, framed within the context of modern life.