Here's why:
* Alfred's peaceful life is disrupted: Alfred, a quiet man with a routine, is suddenly thrown into chaos by his mother's unexpected visit. She arrives unannounced and immediately starts making demands, disrupting the harmony of his daily life.
* Introduction of conflict: Mrs. Higgins represents a burden and a source of conflict for Alfred. She embodies his past, his obligations, and her presence forces him to confront his feelings about her and his own life.
* Setting the stage for the story's themes: Mrs. Higgins' arrival sets in motion the central themes of the story: familial obligations, duty versus desire, and the struggle to find meaning in a life seemingly devoid of purpose.
The inciting incident is not a dramatic, action-packed event, but its impact on Alfred is profound. It marks the beginning of his internal conflict and the journey he undertakes throughout the story.