In Jonathan Lethem's "Motherless Brooklyn," the narrator reflects on a sense of disconnection among a group of friends who feel incomplete without a central figure. This sentiment underscores the emotional and social dynamics at play, as their camaraderie lacks a cohesive element that brings everything together. The metaphor of being "an arrangement around a missing centerpiece" captures the essence of their struggle to find meaning and unity within their relationships.

The phrase "as incoherent as a been less sentence" further emphasizes their disjointedness, suggesting that their communication is flawed and fragmented. This imagery highlights not only the challenges they face in expressing themselves but also points to a deeper existential search for identity and belonging. Ultimately, the quote encapsulates the themes of isolation and the quest for connection that permeate the narrative.