"At the time it seemed like a natural development of my interest in what was going on around me in society"

In this quote, author Helen Garner reflects on a past experience where she ended up being thinking about the events and happenings of society. She explains this interest as a "natural advancement," suggesting that it was a gradual and natural procedure. This might suggest that she was at first curious about the world around her, and as she found out more and observed more, her interest grew. Making use of the expression "what was going on around me" also recommends that she was actively engaged and familiar with her environments. In general, this quote highlights the importance of knowing and taken part in society, and how it can naturally spark one's interest.