In Denis Johnson's "Jesus' Son," the narrator describes an encounter with a building that exudes an atmosphere of intrigue and melancholy. Upon arriving and turning off the engine, they are greeted by the sound of jazz music emanating from within. This choice of music sets a sophisticated yet lonely tone, reflecting the complex emotions surrounding the narrator's experience.
The jazz serves as a backdrop to the moment, evoking feelings of isolation and sophistication simultaneously. It hints at a deeper narrative about connection and loneliness, central themes in the book, which explores the intersections of life, love, and the human condition through a series of vignettes.