In her essay "Slouching Towards Bethlehem," Joan Didion reflects on a generation of young individuals who are drawn from various backgrounds. She characterizes them as earnest and youthful, but also somewhat disconnected from the broader societal context. This lack of awareness suggests they are not fleeing from societal issues; rather, they are like children navigating an unfamiliar world.

Didion's portrayal indicates that these young people are searching for their identity and place in a complicated environment. Their earnestness juxtaposed with a lack of understanding highlights the innocence and naivety present in youth, emphasizing a collective struggle to grasp the complexities of the world around them.