In "Old Man's War" by John Scalzi, the narrator reflects on a growing discomfort in their interactions with a character they refer to as Asshole. Initially, they might have felt uneasy or put off by this person's behavior, but over time, that discomfort seems to fade, indicating how quickly unconventional or creepy behavior can become a new normal in daily life.
This shift underscores a broader commentary on human adaptability and the often troubling aspects of social dynamics, where persistent negative behaviors can become accepted or overlooked in the course of routine interactions.