The quote from Jonathan Lethem's "The Fortress of Solitude" highlights the irony of living in a historically significant place while being oblivious to its past. It suggests that even within the vibrant narrative of a city's history, individual experiences can remain disconnected from the larger events that shape a community or culture. This points to the idea that personal life can overshadow the collective memory and context of the surroundings.

Furthermore, it emphasizes the theme of alienation, where people might be physically present in a locale rich with stories and events yet remain unaware or unmoved by them. This reflects a broader human experience, where one's daily life can be so consuming that it leads to a disconnection from history and significance, underscoring the necessity of being mindful of our cultural heritage and the stories that are woven into the places we inhabit.