In "Lost in the Cosmos," Walker Percy explores the elusive nature of the self. He suggests that the self is not defined by fixed identities or attributes. Instead, individuals embody multiple roles and characteristics, often in contradiction, illustrating the complexity of human identity. By stating that "the self has no sign of itself," Percy emphasizes the fluidity of personal identity and challenges traditional notions of self-definition.

Percy further elaborates that while certain signifiers resonate with specific individuals, he feels all signifiers apply to him, reflecting a broader spectrum of human experience. He embraces the idea that one can be perceived as both hero and villain, showcasing the duality of our natures. This perspective invites readers to consider their own multifaceted identities and the societal labels that attempt to confine them.