" I’m not sure if the passage of time affects our core identities so much as reveals them to us. "
- Jennifer Egan

As we grow older and experience life's various challenges and changes, our understanding of who we truly are often deepens rather than shifts dramatically. The quote suggests that time does not significantly alter our fundamental identity but instead helps us uncover it more fully over the years.

The essence of this statement lies in the idea that our core selves remain consistent despite external influences; however, as life progresses and we accumulate experiences, our ability to recognize and accept these inner truths becomes clearer. This process can be seen as a form of self-discovery where time serves as a tool for revealing aspects of ourselves that may have been obscured by youth or inexperience. As we navigate through different stages of life, such as relationships, career choices, and personal struggles, our true selves often emerge more distinctly.

Jennifer Egan is an acclaimed American author known for her versatile writing style and keen insight into human psychology. Her work often explores the complexities of identity and memory, making this particular quote a fitting reflection of her thematic interests in literature.