In Nick Hornby's "High Fidelity," the protagonist grapples with the emotional fallout of rejection and heartache. The narrative delves into his complex reactions, including the impulsive idea of seeking revenge through a casual encounter with someone else. This reflects a common human instinct to cope with feelings of inadequacy and pain by acting out in ways that may not be entirely rational.

The quote, "What better way to exorcise rejection demons than to screw the person who rejected you?" illustrates a raw and humorous take on coping mechanisms. It highlights the struggle to deal with personal insecurities and the often misguided attempts to reclaim power after being hurt. Through this lens, Hornby captures the intertwining of love, loss, and the desperate measures people take to feel whole again.