What does the phrase "by the end of it" suggest about the man's experience?

The phrase "by the end of it" indicates a change or development in the man's experience as he progresses through the book. It suggests that his feelings or opinions about the book evolved over time, culminating in a different perspective or emotional state when he reached the conclusion. This indicates a journey or transformation influenced by the narrative, themes, or characters within the book. The use of this phrase typically implies that there was a notable shift in his attitude or understanding from the beginning to the end, which aligns perfectly with the idea of changing feelings.