There was silence. No one looked at me. People pretended to be absorbed in their phones. One writer didn't even have a phone, so he just pretended to be absorbed in his hand.
In Mindy Kaling's book, "Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?", she vividly describes a moment of isolation where she feels unnoticed by those around her. The silence in the room is palpable, and rather than engaging with her, others choose to divert their attention to their phones or simply fake distractions, highlighting the disconnection in social interactions.
This experience reflects a broader commentary on how technology can create barriers between people. Instead of fostering genuine connection, it often leads to moments of solitude, even when surrounded by others. Kaling's humorous yet poignant observation sheds light on the struggles of seeking attention and recognition in a world increasingly absorbed in screens.