In "The Blue Sword" by Robin McKinley, the protagonist grapples with the challenge of forming genuine connections in an environment characterized by fleeting encounters at social gatherings. She expresses doubt about the feasibility of really getting to know someone amidst the superficial nature of such events, even if they occur repeatedly over time.

This uncertainty reflects a deeper commentary on the difficulty of forging lasting relationships. The protagonist’s introspection reveals a longing for meaningful interactions, underscoring the complexities of human connection in transient social settings.