Meaning: The quote by Jonathan Lethem reflects the profound impact that New York City has had on his writing and personal experiences. Lethem, an acclaimed American novelist, essayist, and short story writer, is known for his exploration of urban life and the complexities of human connections within the context of urban environments. In this quote, he candidly acknowledges the role of New York in shaping his creative process and emotional attachment to the city.

Lethem's statement, "I'd excluded New York from my writing, and then I came back and I fell in love with it all over again," suggests a period of detachment from New York in his literary work. This exclusion may have been a deliberate choice to explore other settings or themes in his writing, or it could have been a reflection of his own evolving relationship with the city. However, the subsequent return to New York reignited his passion for the city, leading to a rediscovery of its profound impact on his creative energy and inspiration.

The phrase "The energy comes from an absence, that yearning for New York when you are not there" encapsulates the powerful effect of longing and nostalgia for New York when physically distant from it. This sentiment resonates with many individuals who have experienced a deep connection to a place, especially one as iconic and multifaceted as New York City. Lethem highlights how the absence of New York can fuel a sense of yearning and anticipation, ultimately influencing his creative output and emotional connection to the city.

New York City, often referred to as the "concrete jungle," has long been a source of fascination and inspiration for artists, writers, and creatives across various disciplines. Its vibrant and ever-changing landscape, rich cultural tapestry, and dynamic energy have served as a wellspring of creativity for countless individuals. From the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets to the diverse neighborhoods and cultural institutions, New York's multifaceted identity has been a muse for artists seeking to capture the essence of urban life.

For Jonathan Lethem, New York City appears to be an integral part of his creative identity, influencing not only the settings of his narratives but also the emotional undercurrents that permeate his work. The city's palpable energy, distinct neighborhoods, and the convergence of diverse voices and experiences have likely provided Lethem with a wealth of material to explore in his writing. Moreover, the complex interplay of human interactions within the urban fabric of New York has likely informed his portrayal of characters and their relationships within his literary works.

Lethem's journey of rediscovery and rekindled love for New York City underscores the profound impact of sense of place on artistic expression and personal identity. His experience serves as a testament to the enduring allure of cities as sources of inspiration, creativity, and emotional resonance for writers and artists. The themes of absence, yearning, and rediscovery woven into Lethem's reflection on New York City invite readers to contemplate the ways in which places shape our lives, memories, and creative endeavors.

In conclusion, Jonathan Lethem's quote encapsulates the profound influence of New York City on his writing and emotional experience. His candid acknowledgment of exclusion, rediscovery, and the energy derived from absence speaks to the enduring allure of New York as a source of inspiration and creative energy. Through his words, Lethem invites readers to consider the ways in which our connections to place and the dynamics of absence and presence shape our creative processes and emotional landscapes.