In Jonathan Franzen's "How to Be Alone," he reflects on the misconception that individuals must change themselves to fit into society. He suggests that the idea of needing a cure signifies a deeper misunderstanding of one's identity and place in the world. Instead of seeking to transform oneself, it is crucial to cultivate a sense of belonging and acceptance of one's true self.

Franzen emphasizes that feeling connected to the real world is essential for personal growth and fulfillment. When individuals operate in an imagined reality, devoid of that understanding, they struggle to thrive. The journey to self-acceptance and belonging is not about altering one's nature but rather embracing it in the context of the world around them.