In Jonathan Lethem's novel "You Don't Love Me Yet," the narrative explores the complexities of love and self-identity through the lens of an artist’s experience. The story revolves around a struggling musician who grapples with the themes of unrequited love and the search for authenticity in a world that often feels superficial. The interactions between characters reveal their vulnerabilities and aspirations, making the reader reflect on personal connections and the failure to truly understand one another.

The quote "You can't be deep without a surface" encapsulates the essence of relationships and artistic expression in the book. It suggests that depth in understanding and emotion is only possible when there is something tangible to connect with. This highlights the importance of surface-level experiences and appearances, which serve as the foundation for deeper connections. Thus, Lethem invites readers to appreciate both the visible and invisible aspects of love and art as they navigate through life.