In Curtis Sittenfeld's novels, "Prep" and "American Wife," the theme of recognition versus mere familiarity is explored. People may know your name or background but lack true understanding of who you are as a person. Recognizing someone goes deeper than just surface-level knowledge; it involves empathy and shared experiences that connect individuals on a more meaningful level.

Sittenfeld highlights the importance of this deeper recognition, suggesting that it comes from truly engaging with a person's thoughts and feelings. It's about remembering the nuances of their personality, including what makes them laugh or how they react to difficult situations. This complex relationship between recognition and familiarity illuminates how we relate to one another in a profound way.