The book "American Wife" by Curtis Sittenfeld explores themes surrounding personal identity and the complexities of relationships. The protagonist navigates the challenges of love and companionship, reflecting on the nature of solitude versus being in a partnership that feels inauthentic. This leads her to contemplate the repercussions of marrying someone when the connection may not be genuine.

The quote, "To remain alone did not seem to me a terrible fate, no worse than being falsely joined to another person," emphasizes the character's struggle with the idea of authenticity in relationships. She values her independence and recognizes that sometimes, being alone may be preferable to a relationship that lacks honesty and emotional connection.