In "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy, the protagonist reflects on the transformation of a man she once knew as a boy. She observes that despite the passage of time and the changes he has undergone, there remains a striking difference between the child he was and the adult he has become. This contrast highlights the complexities of personal growth and the impact of life's experiences on an individual.

Notably, the only constant from his childhood appears to be his smile, symbolizing innocence and joy that he has retained amid the challenges of adulthood. This detail emphasizes the notion that while people change significantly over time, certain traits or memories may persist, serving as a bridge between their past and present selves.