In the narrative, the character grapples with the fear of revealing her identity as a poet at the party. She is concerned that if asked about her presence, admitting her profession could lead to assumptions about her lifestyle, particularly that her excesses are common among poets. This fear of judgment highlights her struggles with self-perception and societal expectations.
The moment captures a tension between her passion for poetry and the reality of her situation, suggesting that her indulgence in the party atmosphere may clash with the romanticized image of what it means to be a poet. This conflict points to a deeper exploration of identity and the authentic self versus the perceived roles imposed by society.