Drinking Coffee Elsewhere covers so much ground in such a short story. I didn’t even realize the title was right there in the book until I reread it. Within the title lies such a deeper meaning. From Dina’s P.O.V I believe this phrase was an ode to what Dr.Raeburn mentioned about pretending. I felt it was somewhat unfair to criticize Dina for pretending or putting up walls when its clear shes had a rough time. On some level don’t we all pretend? Don’t we all make snide comments, or say things to protect ourselves from being hurt? Dina is portrayed as being out of touch with the world when she really is the closest iv’e seen to being in tune with her emotions. I do believe she was harsh when speaking to Heidi, but when you are so used to acting one way, its quite difficult to just change how you respond. The significance of this title is a complete circle back to her “pretending”. She is simply just someone who’s a little to honest. Which is a blessing and a curse.