In "A Distant View of Everything" by Alexander McCall Smith, a character reflects on a poignant poem that compares memories to onions. This analogy suggests that, much like onions, memories can evoke strong emotions and can lead to tears, highlighting the bittersweet nature of reminiscing.
The idea that memories can elicit deep feelings is significant, as it reminds us that the past is woven into our identity. This connection between sensory experiences and emotional responses emphasizes the complexity of how we process our memories.