In "The Fortress of Solitude," Jonathan Lethem explores the complexities of urban life and personal identity through the lens of his characters’ experiences. The protagonist's reflection on seemingly mundane objects, like earplugs, signifies a deeper contemplation of societal roles and class structures. This suggests that even simple items can embody intricate meanings within the bourgeois context, prompting readers to think beyond their immediate utility.

Lethem invites readers to examine the relationship between individuals and their environments, highlighting how objects are intertwined with cultural and social dynamics. The quote emphasizes the protagonist's newfound awareness of the layers of significance that everyday items can carry, encouraging a more profound understanding of contemporary life in a capitalist society.