I wasn't good at pretending... I could see no point in being anything other than truthful with the world... But, by careful observation from the sidelines, I'd worked out that social success is often built on pretending just a little. Popular people sometimes have to laugh at things they don't find funny, do things they don't particularly want to, with people whose company they don't particularly enjoy. Not me. I had decided, years ago, that if the choice was between that or flying solo, then I'd fly solo.
The narrator reflects on their struggle with social interactions, noting a strong belief in being genuine rather than conforming to societal expectations. They recognize that many people achieve social success through a level of pretense, participating in activities or friendships that do not resonate with them. This observation highlights a disconnect between their values and the behaviors of those who are perceived as popular.
Ultimately, the narrator values authenticity over social acceptance, choosing to remain true to themselves even if it means being alone. They have resolved to prioritize their own beliefs rather than conform to the norms of social acceptance, illustrating a commitment to authenticity in a world that often prioritizes superficial interactions.
