the final soloist

This was an enjoyable book to read. I think a lot of students connected with the book because it had to do with music and urban lifestyle. The ending was very touching and as well relatable. All Ayers wants to do is play music. No matter how hard or bad things get or how awful people and situations can be, music will always be there for you. It is your life time friend that can comfort you at anytime. At the end of the book Ayers "narrates" a piece of instrumental music. A piece that doesn't even have words can say and mean so much. To Ayers, this piece is saying, "I love music" over and over and over again.

Something I found very beautiful was when Lopez states that, "Nathaniel has gone years without a worry common to the rest of us. He has no money, wants no money, needs no money." In our society money is a huge distraction from the people and things we love. Ayers doesn't have this huge distraction in his life, therefore he can focus on his music (which is his true love) and being content with his life. I feel like he can enjoy the wonders that the world has to offer better than the richest man out there.

In this last chunk Lopez realizes he may not be the one to "cure" Ayers. He realizes that no one may be able to cure him. from that point on Lopez simply embraces Ayers for his talents. Surprising him with his own studio space and instruments is the best thing anyone could have done for him. With proper equipment and motivation maybe Ayers will find his way back into an orchestra and really make it on his own. I find that immersing yourself in art, literature, and music truly makes you a better person. It helps you to think clearer, produce interesting thoughts, conversations, and works of art for yourself. Having a conversation with Ayers is very interesting I'm sure. I feel like despite his illness he is extremely intelligent. For Nathaniel, the concert will never end.



how does it flow? Do you agree with my points? could you add on to my points? i love criticism!!