In William T. Vollmann's "Europe Central," the author employs vivid imagery to describe musical symbols. He draws a comparison between the treble clef and a person from Russia, suggesting a bulky figure dressed for the cold, which reflects both cultural identity and the weighty associations of music. This metaphor evokes a sense of nostalgia and connection to the harshness of life in winter.

Furthermore, the portrayal of the bass clef as a widow struggling against adversity amplifies the emotional depth of the imagery. The illustration of a widow drawing water from a frozen canal conveys a sense of resilience amidst sorrow. Vollmann’s use of these metaphors encapsulates the interplay between music, emotion, and the stark realities of life, revealing the profound connections between art and human experience.