Which theme is illustrated by the following passage from Gogol's "The Nose?"

"But nothing lasts long in this world. Even joy grows less lively the next moment. And a moment later, again, it weakens further. And at last, it reemerges insensibly with the normal mood, even as the ripple from a pebble's impact becomes reemerged with the smooth surface of the water at large."

A. If someone is in a bad mood, it can weaken others around him.
B. As soon as someone is in a good mood, it spreads to those around them.
C. Over time, people become more satisfied with their lives.
D. Though they may be excited for a time, people soon return to their regular mood.