In the quoted reflection from William T. Vollmann's "Europe Central," the author emphasizes the idea that past events hold no power over us and can no longer inflict harm. Instead, he suggests that what truly matters is music—an art form that exists both within and outside of us. This implies a belief in the enduring nature of music, transcending time and circumstance.

Vollmann implies that music requires us to share and express it, yet it holds the ability to persist indefinitely even in silence. This perspective highlights the resilience of artistic expression and its vital role in human experience, serving as a reminder of the beauty that can endure despite the passage of time and the weight of history.