In this excerpt from "The Fortress of Solitude" by Jonathan Lethem, the narrative contrasts the perception of people in cars with the two boys on a walkway. The rush of traffic symbolizes a disconnect, as those inside the vehicles are oblivious to their surroundings, mistakenly believing they are part of the vibrant New York experience. The author suggests that true New Yorkers are more attuned to the rhythm of the city.

The boys represent a unique energy, as they seem to be standing still yet are moving faster than the cars below them. This juxtaposition emphasizes their freedom and sense of belonging in the urban landscape, highlighting the difference between being trapped in a vehicle and experiencing the city firsthand. Set against the backdrop of 1975, the passage evokes a specific cultural moment that enhances the theme of urban identity.