When people meet me, many times they're very surprised because they expect someone who is kind of wacky with seven piercings and very hip and cool and New York City, and I'm not.

In this quote, Augusten Burroughs reflects on the contrast between people’s expectations of him and his actual personality. He suggests that, based on his public persona or perhaps his profession, others might expect him to be a "wacky" and eccentric individual, fitting a stereotype of someone with an edgy, non-conformist look, symbolized by having seven piercings and a "hip" style. This expectation aligns with the stereotypical image of someone from New York City, a place often associated with cutting-edge trends and individuality.

However, Burroughs points out the gap between how he's perceived and who he truly is. He admits that when people meet him in person, they are often surprised to find that he doesn’t fit that stereotypical image. His statement emphasizes how our outward appearances or preconceived notions about someone can be misleading, and that people may not always conform to the roles they are assumed to play.

This quote also reflects a deeper theme of identity and the pressure to live up to external expectations. Burroughs hints at the idea that people are often placed into certain boxes based on what others believe or assume about them, which can create a disconnect between how someone presents themselves and who they actually are. The surprise people feel when meeting him reflects the sometimes inaccurate assumptions others make based on limited information.

Ultimately, this quote speaks to the complexity of self-presentation and the misunderstanding that can arise when individuals are judged based on stereotypes. It encourages us to look beyond the surface and not assume someone's personality or lifestyle based on outward appearances or preconceived notions.