In Alice Munro's book "Runaway," the character Green struggles to understand her emotions, mistaking her anger for jealousy. She grapples with societal expectations that dictate how women should act to be desirable, leading to confusion about her true feelings. This internal conflict highlights the pressure women face in conforming to these standards, which can distort their self-perception and emotional responses.

As Green transitions into motherhood, her focus shifts entirely to her children, marking a significant change in her identity. The intense love and dedication she devotes to her role as a mother contrast with her earlier feelings of self-centeredness. However, despite this transformation, she feels mentally constrained, hinting at unresolved issues from her past that linger in her mind.