"People who live together naturally catch the looks and air of one another and without having one feature alike, they contract a something in the whole countenance which strikes one as a resemblance"

Frances Burney, an astute observer of human nature and society, records an interesting element of human relationships and mimicry in this quote. In the beginning glance, Burney is highlighting the phenomenon where people who cohabit start to look like each other, not necessarily in distinct facial functions however rather in their general disposition or "countenance". This resemblance emerges not from shared genes but from shared experiences, interactions, and daily routines.

Burney's words suggest a much deeper commentary on the human tendency for replica and adaptation. When people cohabit, they are exposed to each other's psychological responses, mannerisms, speech patterns, and practices. With time, these elements can blend, causing a subtle synchronization in behavior and appearance. This concept aligns with modern-day psychological principles such as emotional contagion, where people unconsciously imitate the emotions and expressions of those around them, enhancing compassion and social bonding.

In addition, Burney's observation touches on the power of environment in shaping one's identity. It implies that a person's social and physical environment can be just as prominent in developing individual qualities as inherent traits. The "something" she describes is a non-tangible essence that exceeds physical similarity, hinting at a shared energy or aura that develops within people in close proximity.

This quote can also be extended metaphorically to recommend that neighborhood or social ties shape people considerably. It functions as a pointer of the effect of relationships on individual development and the interconnectedness of human lives. In essence, Burney is acknowledging that resemblance is not exclusively the domain of biology however is frequently sculpted through the friendship and shared experiences that define human cohabitation.

In general, Burney beautifully distills the communal element of human existence, offering insight into how identities are shaped not simply by functions and look however by the shared human experience.