Exploring Identity and Disconnection in Zadie Smith's White Teeth

In the realm of 20th-century literature, authors often explore themes of identity and disconnection through their characters' experiences. Read the following excerpt from Zadie Smith's White Teeth:

"In the end, everything is predictable. When we meet the person we're going to love, it's fun, it's dangerous. But it's forever, it feels forever; while in reality, it’s just another random encounter among many. We claim to know each other, but really, we just know the surface."

Discuss how Smith develops her theme of identity and disconnection through the lens of her characters' relationships. In your essay, include a thesis statement that outlines your argument and supports it with specific evidence from the text.