Diana Quick is a successful British actress who has portrayed a variety of characters in movies and television shows. She was raised straddling two worlds, frequently caught between the cultural expectations of both her Indian and English parents.

This passage from Quick's memoirs describes how her appearance varies depending on the circumstances of her life. She admits that she likes to dress up for special occasions but doesn't wear much makeup in daily life. This statement captures a larger theme in her life: changing one's behavior and appearance to suit various situations.

Quick observes a change in herself as she gets older. The quote suggests that the "fantasy Indian self" she inherited from her father is losing its sway. This expression probably alludes to the romanticized or idealized portrayal of Indian culture that has been transmitted through customs and family tales. Rather, as she gets older, she notices more aspects of her mother's influence in the mirror.

This observation serves as a moving reminder of how one's immediate surroundings and ingrained cultural expectations both shape one's sense of self. Quick examines the intricate relationship between ancestry and life experiences that molds a person over time using this reflection.

Consider a gardener who cares for a variety of plants in their garden as an example. Similar to how Quick changes her appearance and behavior depending on the situation in her life, each plant may need a different amount of care and attention. Similar to Quick's observation that her mother's influence is becoming more noticeable in her identity, the gardener also observes which plants flourish and endure over time as the seasons change.

Diana Quick challenges readers to consider their own cultural upbringings and how they adjust to various circumstances while retaining their essential identity through this quotation.