In her book "A Widow's Story," Joyce Carol Oates reflects on the discomfort of receiving upsetting news from friends without a justifiable cause. She expresses a strong aversion to such situations, feeling that the act of sharing distressing information can often be rooted in a cruel desire to elicit emotional reactions rather than to provide meaningful support.

Oates suggests that friends should be mindful and considerate when discussing sensitive topics, as the sharing of bad news should serve a purpose beyond mere observation of others' emotional responses. This perspective highlights the importance of empathy in friendships, advocating for a more compassionate approach to communication in difficult times.