In "Funny Girl," Nick Hornby explores the complexities of life, identity, and aspirations through the experiences of his characters. The story highlights how individuals sometimes yearn for a simplified or altered version of their past experiences, suggesting that their desires can lead to a disillusioned sense of fulfillment.
The quote reflects the notion that one can request a lesser version of their previous life, and the city of London readily accommodates that desire. It implies that even in the search for happiness or contentment, settling for something inferior may be all that is needed, bringing both humor and poignancy to the narrative.