In Jhumpa Lahiri's "Unaccustomed Earth," the protagonist reflects on how his once cherished solitary moments have transformed over time. What was once a source of pleasure has devolved into a sense of entrapment, highlighting a shift in his perception of solitude. It conveys a feeling of loss as he realizes that the very thing he valued has become mundane and confining.
This change indicates a broader theme of how personal experiences and circumstances can alter one's relationship with solitude. The narrative prompts readers to consider the psychological impact of isolation, suggesting that what may initially be a comforting space can become a burden, leading to feelings of restlessness and nostalgia for a time when solitude was freeing rather than imprisoning.