is that modern houses use a 2 phase based system... the current comes in on two separate hot legs... (usually red and black wires) these are distributed within the breaker box. (this is quite easy to see if you have an empty box laying around.)

So there is also the possibility that the power from the generator can be "brought in" on one phase leg, but be needed on the other. The only solution, based on the original scenario is to find an outlet on the same phase leg to power those items needed. You may find that you can't power one light here and another light there... as they are on different connection legs in the box.

Frankly I think I would just use extension cords and power strips to get the power where it needs to be.

But to answer the first question... yes, it can be done.