In the novel "Tears of the Giraffe" by Alexander McCall Smith, the protagonist views hospitals as symbols of mortality. For her, these structures serve as stark reminders of death, evoking a sense of dread about the ultimate fate awaiting everyone. This perspective leads her to believe that it's preferable to overlook such thoughts as one navigates through the daily challenges and joys of life.

Her reflection on hospitals suggests a deeper philosophical stance on mortality; while aware of the inevitable end, she chooses to focus on living rather than dwelling on death. This choice illustrates a common human tendency to avoid confronting uncomfortable truths in order to engage fully in the present moment.