The protagonist reflects on the interplay between artifice and reality while looking at various photographs and drawings. He notes that television often presents an illusion of realism while simultaneously concealing much of the truth. In contrast, fiction has the power to convey deep human truths that resonate with reality. This duality suggests that one can navigate between these realms with the right perspective or insight, uncovering hidden layers of meaning.

He further contemplates the nature of London, a city rich with unseen complexities and social codes. These unspoken rules tend to protect the privileged and maintain a facade that obscures the truth. The observation underscores the cleverness of people in navigating these hidden structures, revealing the intricate ways society operates beneath the surface.