for the first time, how scared [he is] of dying, and of other people dying… it has prevented [him] from sticking with a relationship, because if you stick with a relationship, and your life becomes dependent on that person’s life, and then they die… well, you’re up the creek…” (247). Rob does not want to be left alone, and that is just what Laura has done.The source of Rob’s anger and loneliness is Laura’s departure. The lyrics, “My baby left, and she wouldn’t say why, now all I do is cry…” is reminiscent of Laura. As strong as Rob tries to be, “to [his] intense irritation and embarrassment, [he’s] in tears, and the feel-nothing world [he’s] been living in for the past few days has vanished’ (60). At this point Rob acknowledges his defeat and realizes he cannot go on without Laura in his life because she was the one person he could rely on and talk to. With Laura gone, Rob resorts to a false comfort, his music.Rob is so passionate about music because it is the one stable thing in his life. No one can take music away from him and it keeps him going. Music is what he uses to start conversations, make a living, fill up his apartment and to motivate him. The lyrics, “It’s only my wind that keeps me alive” can be related to Rob’s music. The only thing that keeps him going during rough times is his music, his “wind.” Music is a secure commitment, which will never walk out on him or die on him… music is his High Fidelity....
