The quote suggests that many men carry wallets that are old, overstuffed, and worn out. These wallets often appear shabby and overly bulky, resembling a piece of melted chocolate cake with strings attached, indicating their age and lack of maintenance.
This observation goes beyond just pointing out an aesthetic flaw. It reflects broader societal habits regarding the treatment of personal items and possessions. People may neglect to replace or maintain essential accessories like wallets because they perceive these objects as purely functional rather than stylish statements. This attitude can also be seen in other areas, such as clothing or technology, where individuals might continue using outdated or worn-out products simply because they work, rather than upgrading for improved quality or aesthetics.
Jonathan Carroll is an American novelist and short story writer known for his surreal and magical realism in literature. His unique perspective often delves into themes of identity and the nature of reality, which can be seen reflected in this insightful observation about everyday objects like wallets.