In her essay collection "Bad Feminist," Roxane Gay discusses the challenge of reaching those who are set in their beliefs. She highlights that individuals who are immovable often dismiss personal testimonies, rendering them indifferent to the experiences of others. This detachment creates a barrier to understanding and compassion, as they remain unaffected by compelling narratives.

Gay illustrates how her stories, especially those of pain and struggle, can become mere spectacles for audiences. Instead of provoking deep reflection, they are fleeting moments that people acknowledge briefly before quickly turning their attention elsewhere. This phenomenon underscores the difficulty of fostering meaningful discussions about complex issues, as many overlook the significance of these narratives in favor of fleeting emotions.