A pianist can sometimes resemble a slow underwater swimmer, and a lover likewise swims within the sea of the other, far down where no waves can reach; overhead, the piano's lid, heavier than a coffin's, shuts out extraneous vibrations, while simultaneously demarcating the boundary between water and air. It's too perfect underwater; that's what kills us, the perfection!
by William T. Vollmann
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The excerpt compares a pianist to a slow swimmer, suggesting a serene yet isolating experience. Both the pianist and a lover engage deeply in their respective realms, immersing themselves in a world where external distractions are absent. The piano's lid symbolizes a barrier that limits external influences, creating a unique space for connection and artistry.

However, this perfection found in their deep focus is also depicted as detrimental. The idea that an ideal state can be harmful points to the inherent challenges in striving for perfection in love or art. Ultimately, the passage reflects on the complexity of passion and the isolating nature of fully immersing oneself in an experience.

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March 26, 2025

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