Why does it matter to the story that his surroundings are no longer way they used be?

It matters to the story that the character's surroundings are no longer the way they used to be because it creates a sense of change and disruption. This can be used to convey a variety of emotions, such as nostalgia, loss, or bewilderment. It can also be used to create a sense of conflict, as the character may have to adapt to their new surroundings or face the consequences of their changing environment.

For example, if a character grew up in a rural area and then moves to a big city, they may feel overwhelmed and disoriented by their new surroundings. This could lead to a sense of loss, as they may miss the familiar sights and sounds of their old home. It could also lead to a sense of conflict, as they may have to adjust to a new way of life and make new friends.

Another example is if a character lives in a world that is suddenly ravaged by a natural disaster. This could lead to a sense of devastation and loss, as the character may have to rebuild their life from scratch. It could also lead to a sense of conflict, as they may have to compete for resources with other survivors.

By changing the character's surroundings, the author can create a variety of emotions and conflicts, which can help to drive the story forward and keep readers engaged.