But nothing is said of the closeness between two people: how they grew in the shade of each other's presence. No one speaks of that exchange of gift and character --- the way a person took on and recognized in himself the smile of a lover. Individuals are seen only in the context of these swirling social tides.

Summary

This quote highlights the often overlooked intimacy between two people and how they influence each other. It criticizes how society tends to focus on individuals within the larger social framework, neglecting the profound impact that personal connections have on personal growth. The quote portrays the development of a shared identity and the mutual exchange of emotions and traits between two individuals, contrasting it with the broader societal perspective that fails to acknowledge these intimate connections.

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