In times of crisis, individuals often find their attention sharply focused on the immediate challenges they face. The complexities and distractions of life fade away, leaving only what truly matters in the moment. This narrowing of focus can reveal the harsh realities that typically lie hidden, forcing people to confront situations without the usual illusions that distract them.

Jim Thompson, in his novel "The Killer Inside Me," encapsulates this phenomenon, highlighting how critical events strip away pretense. As the world is reduced to its most pressing concerns, individuals may react in surprising ways, revealing deeper truths about their character and the circumstances around them.