Lispector's writing is known for its poetic and philosophical depth, which can be challenging for some readers. The novel's stream-of-consciousness style and complex themes require patience and a willingness to engage with its ambiguity. However, the rewards for the patient reader are immense, offering a profound and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.

The title alludes to the Passion of Christ, suggesting a parallel between G.H.'s experience and the suffering and transformation of Jesus. However, Lispector offers a secular interpretation of 'passion,' focusing on the intensity of G.H.'s inner turmoil and her journey toward self-discovery.

The cockroach, the white walls of G.H.'s apartment, and the act of consumption all function as potent symbols within the narrative. They represent, respectively, the confrontation with the abject, the sterility of modern life, and the breaking down of societal norms.