In Mark Helprin's "A Soldier of the Great War," the character De Roos reflects on the gratitude expressed by patients' families towards physicians. He believes such an attitude can lead to unhealthy expectations, almost deifying doctors, which can weigh heavily on them. De Roos emphasizes that the appreciation shouldn't be misplaced or exaggerated, as it can result in profound sorrow for everyone involved, especially in the face of death. He dismisses the idea of deserving thanks, indicating that the relationship between patient, family, and doctor is complex and fraught with emotional challenges. The weight of mortality affects not only the families but also the healthcare providers, highlighting a shared humanity that complicates the notion of gratitude in life-and-death situations.

In Mark Helprin's "A Soldier of the Great War," the character De Roos reflects on the gratitude expressed by patients' families towards physicians. He believes such an attitude can lead to unhealthy expectations, almost deifying doctors, which can weigh heavily on them. De Roos emphasizes that the appreciation shouldn't be misplaced or exaggerated, as it can result in profound sorrow for everyone involved, especially in the face of death.

He dismisses the idea of deserving thanks, indicating that the relationship between patient, family, and doctor is complex and fraught with emotional challenges. The weight of mortality affects not only the families but also the healthcare providers, highlighting a shared humanity that complicates the notion of gratitude in life-and-death situations.