In Ian McEwan's "Atonement," a character grapples with the overwhelming reality of existence, questioning whether others experience life as intensely as she does. This contemplation leads her to realize that if everyone else is indeed as vibrant and full of life, the complexity of the social world becomes daunting. With billions of individuals each holding their unique perspectives, it is challenging to navigate the cacophony of thoughts and emotions that define human interaction.

This realization fosters a sense of isolation, as she perceives the struggle of individuality amid a sea of universal claims to uniqueness. The weight of this understanding suggests that one could easily feel insignificant and lost, drowning in the noise of collective experience. In such a world, the challenge lies in finding personal relevance amidst the multitude, a dilemma that underscores the intricate dance of identity and connection in the human experience.