In "American Wife," Curtis Sittenfeld reflects on the challenges faced by those in the public eye. The narrative highlights how individuals often dismiss the warnings and complaints of famous people, viewing them as mere expressions of dissatisfaction or insincere modesty. This tendency to overlook such feelings suggests a societal reluctance to acknowledge the struggles that accompany fame.

Despite the significant pressures that come with public attention, the desire for recognition persists. People continually seek the spotlight, believing that achieving fame will somehow absolve them of their grievances regarding it. Sittenfeld captures this ironic pursuit of fame, revealing a deep-rooted hope that drives individuals to aspire for the very attention that eludes their more self-aware counterparts.