The Rosie Project

“Restaurants are minefields for the socially inept…” 

Here, Don explains that the social intricacies of going to a restaurant are dangerous ground for him. This is one of many clues in the opening chapter that Don is not a typical protagonist. His insights, often refreshingly blunt, reveal the complexity of human interactions. Not everyone can perform socially without making serious mistakes; Don’s self-deprecation and humor make him relatable, even if the reader does not share his problem.

“It seems hardly possible to analyze such a complex situation involving deceit and supposition of another person’s emotional response, and then prepare your own plausible lie, all while someone is waiting for you to reply to a question. Yet that is exactly what people expect you to be able to do” 

Here, Don explains one difficulty he has in social situations. His brain is not wired the same way as most people’s are, resulting in both hilarious and painful interactions. Don’s insights offer a view into thought processes that most people take for granted. Repeatedly, throughout the novel, Don offers his critique of the hypocrisies of typical adult social exchanges.

“‛Professor Tillman. Most of us here are not scientists, so you may need to be a little less technical.’ This sort of thing is incredibly annoying. People can tell you the supposed characteristics of a Gemini or a Taurus and will spend five days watching a cricket match, but cannot find the interest or the time to learn the basics of what they, as humans, are made up of” 

Don gives an example of his frustrations with “regular” people, emphasizing his difference from many other people. Don has a rational and scientific approach to all aspects of life.