In Mark Helprin's "A Soldier of the Great War," the author reflects on the profound connections that can form between people, suggesting that significant events—whether traumatic or extraordinary—often act as catalysts for deep bonds. He posits that without such intense experiences, genuine intimacy may be difficult to achieve, as they create a sense of urgency and openness that otherwise might not exist.

Moreover, Helprin explores the complex relationship between sexual love and moral ambiguity. He notes that this love often intertwines with notions of sin, implying that its intensity may stem from the heightened emotional landscape created by life's extraordinary moments. This intertwining suggests a deeper layer to human connections, where love is not just a simple emotion but one intertwined with moral challenges and the human experience.