“He throws his head back, closes his eyes, drifts. A portrait of tortured bliss.”

This is one of the earliest descriptions of Nathaniel Ayers playing his violin. Although he is playing in the Second Street tunnel alongside his shopping cart, he is nonetheless connecting to something higher. This description ties into the theme of art as giving a sense of purpose and transcendence to its practitioners. 

“My chance encounter had affirmed a golden rule in journalism: everyone has a story, so get out of the office and talk to people.”

Lopez points to the aspect of human experience in journalism. It is not sufficient to merely apprehend facts—one must also dig deep to get a person’s story. In this way, he touches on the theme of art’s significance: it penetrates to what is true and moving in human experience. 

“You’re only as good or bad as your latest attempt to make some connection with the world, and Nathaniel’s story hits like nothing I’ve written before.”

These lines also comment upon the work of journalism. Although it presents many opportunities to connect with art, it is a difficult business. One must keep producing effective and moving pieces in order to survive in the industry.