In novel flowers for algernon why does charlie refer to himself before the operation?

In "Flowers for Algernon," Charlie refers to himself before the operation to illustrate his limited cognitive abilities and emotional understanding. He often reflects on his past experiences and interactions, which are marked by confusion and a desire for acceptance. By contrasting his pre-operation self with his post-operation intelligence, the novel highlights the profound changes in his identity and self-awareness. This retrospective serves to deepen the reader's understanding of Charlie's journey and the impact of the experimental surgery on his life.