In Richard Ford's book "Canada," a conversation unfolds that highlights the tension between self-centeredness and empathy. One speaker challenges another's reluctance to engage with experiences beyond their own, questioning the necessity of always relating events back to oneself. This exchange emphasizes the importance of being able to step outside of one's own perspective and consider others' feelings and situations. The protagonist advocates for a broader understanding of life, suggesting that personal growth can come from taking on different viewpoints and embracing the experiences of others. This dialogue underscores a key theme of the narrative: the struggle to connect and the challenges posed by a limited, self-involved worldview.

In Richard Ford's book "Canada," a conversation unfolds that highlights the tension between self-centeredness and empathy. One speaker challenges another's reluctance to engage with experiences beyond their own, questioning the necessity of always relating events back to oneself. This exchange emphasizes the importance of being able to step outside of one's own perspective and consider others' feelings and situations.

The protagonist advocates for a broader understanding of life, suggesting that personal growth can come from taking on different viewpoints and embracing the experiences of others. This dialogue underscores a key theme of the narrative: the struggle to connect and the challenges posed by a limited, self-involved worldview.