On a particularly cold winter evening, a character at home reflects on the state of technology while tending to his fireplace. In a moment of frustration, he mutters, "Computers are irrelevant," suggesting a skepticism towards their importance in the modern world. This sentiment captures an introspective moment where traditional means of warmth and comfort clash with the advancing technological landscape.

In the context of the book "The Soul of a New Machine" by Tracy Kidder, this statement may reveal deeper themes regarding the relationship between human experience and technological progress. It emphasizes the tension between valuing human skills and the pervasive influence of computers, which play a crucial role in the rapidly evolving tech industry.