In Victorian London, people attempted to connect with the supernatural during seances by burning phosphorus to reveal ghosts. This practice reflects a broader theme of seeking the unseen or unknown. In a modern context, this desire manifests in the pop music scene through a fascination with B-sides, alternate versions, and unreleased tracks, similar to the ways people sought to uncover hidden truths in the past.

Nick Hornby, in his book "Songbook," draws a parallel between these historical practices and contemporary music culture. He suggests that just as seances involved rituals to glimpse the mysterious, music fans today are often captivated by the allure of lesser-known songs and the secrets behind their favorite artists. This obsession reveals a deeper human curiosity about creativity and the artistic process.