In Haruki Murakami's "South of the Border, West of the Sun," the narrator reflects on the profound impact one person can have on another's life. They express a sense of shock upon realizing the capacity for deep emotional harm that someone can inflict, leaving lasting scars that are never mended. This realization emphasizes the complexity of human relationships and the sometimes painful ways people affect one another.

Moreover, the narrative suggests that some individuals possess an inherent ability to cause pain simply by being who they are. This complicates the understanding of existence and highlights the darker aspects of interpersonal connections. The idea that certain people can wound others without any intention reinforces the emotional journeys of the characters and the intricate dynamics explored throughout the story.