The passage reflects the intense scrutiny with which the narrator observes a particular character. This close attention leads to an overemphasis on her actions, suggesting that even the smallest details become magnified in significance. The description of her smoking and drinking indicates a personal struggle or a sense of chaos that seems to disrupt the environment around her.
By focusing on her behaviors, it becomes apparent that the narrator's perception is clouded by their feelings and observations, transforming mundane activities into noteworthy events. The character's way of being affects not only her own life but also the dynamics of those surrounding her, illustrating how closely interconnected lives can create a larger narrative of tension and complexity.