In the book "City of Golden Shadow" by Tad Williams, the protagonist reflects on the peculiar nature of their friendships, particularly focusing on the complexities of online connections. Initially, the idea of having a friend whom you've never met in person seemed unusual to him. This highlights the evolving nature of relationships in a digital world.

However, the situation becomes even more surreal when he experiences the loss of this friend, emphasizing a sense of emptiness and confusion. Despite the lack of a traditional friendship, the emotional impact of that loss resonates deeply, showcasing how significant online relationships can be, even if they are not grounded in physical encounters.