In "Station Eleven," the protagonist reflects on the burden of regret that accumulates over time. At fifty-one, he realizes how much he has repented for his past actions, identifying this weight of regret as a notable distinction from his younger self at twenty-one. The imagery of regrets surrounding him like moths underscores the pervasive nature of these feelings, highlighting the emotional toll they take.

This introspection leads him to confront his life choices and the experiences that shaped him. The acknowledgment of these regrets not only reveals his personal growth but also emphasizes a universal theme of maturity and the inevitability of reflecting on past decisions as one ages.