The quote illustrates a profound moment of shock, emphasizing how focusing on mundane details can be a symptom of emotional turmoil. It captures the disconnection between reality and one’s perception, where the mind zeroes in on inconsequential things as a coping mechanism in response to trauma.

In Margaret Atwood's "MaddAddam," this theme resonates with the characters as they navigate a world filled with chaos and uncertainty. Their fixation on trivialities serves as a survival strategy, reflecting the psychological impact of their dystopian surroundings and the struggle to regain normalcy amidst distress.