The quote "The people seemed nearly ostentatious about minding their own business" from Robert Jordan's "The Great Hunt" highlights a strong sense of individualism among the characters. They appear to take pride in their independence, reinforcing social boundaries and personal space. This behavior may suggest a society that values privacy or perhaps reflects an underlying tension in community relationships.
This statement can also imply a critique of societal norms where people are overly concerned with their own affairs, potentially leading to a lack of awareness about communal issues. It invites readers to consider the balance between respecting personal autonomy and fostering a sense of interconnectedness within a community.