What he needed was to find fifty more people like him, who had stopped being themselves without realizing it

What he needed was to find fifty more people like him, who had stopped being themselves without realizing it

In Jennifer Egan's novel "A Visit from the Goon Squad," the quote "What he needed was to find fifty more people like him, who had stopped being themselves without realizing it" encapsulates the central theme of identity and self-discovery. The novel follows a diverse cast of characters whose lives intersect in unexpected ways, exploring the ways in which they navigate their own sense of self in a rapidly changing world.

The character who most embodies this idea is Bennie Salazar, a record executive who finds himself feeling disconnected from his own identity as he navigates the music industry and grapples with his own personal demons. Bennie's search for "fifty more people like him" reflects his desire to find others who share his sense of disillusionment and loss of self. He longs to connect with individuals who, like him, have lost touch with their true selves and are struggling to find their way back.

Throughout the novel, Egan delves into the complexities of identity and the ways in which external forces can shape and distort our sense of self. From Sasha, a young woman grappling with addiction and a troubled past, to Lou, a washed-up rock star struggling to reclaim his former glory, each character in "A Visit from the Goon Squad" is grappling with their own sense of identity and searching for a way to rediscover who they truly are.

The quote also speaks to the idea of community and the power of connection in helping individuals find their way back to themselves. By finding others who share their struggles and experiences, Bennie and the other characters in the novel are able to find solace and support in their shared journey towards self-discovery. Through their interactions and relationships with one another, they are able to confront their own inner demons and begin to piece together the fragments of their fractured identities.