In the novel "Motherless Brooklyn" by Jonathan Lethem, the protagonist, Lionel Essrog, experiences a moment of escape from the urban environment. Surrounded by nature—waves, sky, and trees—he feels liberated from the rigid structures of city life, symbolized by the "grammar of skyscrapers and pavement." This imagery highlights a contrast between the chaotic energy of the city and the serene beauty of nature.

This passage reflects Essrog's internal struggle and desire for freedom. The disconnect from concrete surroundings allows him to explore deeper themes of identity and belonging, as he navigates his life with Tourette's syndrome. Lethem captures the essence of seeking solace in the natural world, offering a poignant commentary on the complexities of urban existence.