In "Bleeding Edge" by Thomas Pynchon, the character Maxine displays a strong aversion to physical cash, which reflects a common tendency among accountants to be uneasy with tangible money. This reaction underscores her professional background and hints at deeper themes within the narrative regarding trust and the evolving nature of currency in a digital age.

Maxine's recoiling is indicative of a broader societal shift towards digital transactions and a discomfort with the unpredictability of physical money. This moment illustrates the tension between traditional financial practices and the contemporary world, emphasizing how characters navigate these changes throughout the story.