In Diana Gabaldon's "Written in My Own Heart's Blood," the narrator describes an extreme level of humidity, humorously exaggerating it to a thousand percent. This vivid imagery sets the scene for discomfort while also illustrating the protagonist’s determination to enjoy a small pleasure, like coffee, despite the challenging environment.

The act of sweetening coffee and blowing on it before taking a sip highlights the character's resilience and commitment to savoring life's simple joys. This moment reflects a balance between the struggles of the surrounding atmosphere and the small comforts that can be found within it.