In Nick Hornby's "High Fidelity," the protagonist reflects on how others perceive him, particularly a woman who describes him as "soulful." This term, he interprets as meaning that he tends to be quiet and often appears annoyed or displeased. This self-assessment reveals his awareness of how his demeanor impacts his interactions and relationships with others.

Hornby's writing captures the complexities of emotional expression and how individuals can be misinterpreted based on their outward appearance or behavior. The protagonist’s acknowledgment of his perceived soulfulness highlights the disconnect that can exist between one's true feelings and how they are interpreted by the outside world.