In "Pushing the Limits" by Katie McGarry, the character Echo is portrayed as someone who, despite her struggles and challenges, remains popular among her peers. Her reputation is complicated, as she engages in self-harm and can be emotionally distant, which leads people to caution against getting too close to her. The quote reflects the pain and disappointment that often come with relationships like hers.

The speaker expresses a sense of resignation about the nature of connections in their world, suggesting that repeated heartbreak can lead to emotional defenses. They view Echo as someone who embodies this cycle of hurt, reinforcing the idea that vulnerability can lead to being overwhelmed by one's emotions and past traumas.