Leonard and Paul are introverts who need quiet time alone. The novel follows both from childhood into adulthood, noting the role that solitude plays in their lives. Yet each character also needs human connection and seeks out a small number of meaningful relationships. Through the interplay between solitude and connection, the novel argues that while introverts require downtime to recharge their social batteries, they also need meaningful bonds with family members and true friends.

Leonard’s introversion develops in childhood and remains into adulthood. An intelligent boy, he prefers reading alone to socializing or sports. He develops a love of learning and often impresses his mother with his growing body of knowledge. Because he is so drawn to educational reading material as a child, he uses his understanding of what children find interesting to develop a career as a writer of children’s encyclopedias. This job allows Leonard to be part of the world and maintain distance from other people: He works in an office but relies on noise-cancelling headphones to isolate himself from his colleagues. However, Leonard also cherishes meaningful relationships. He and his mother are so closely bonded that he never moves out of her house, and he also maintains important friendships with Paul and his family. Leonard and Paul are kindred spirits: Each man needs alone time, but they both also recognize the value of connection: “Solitude and peace lose their specialness when they no longer stand in contrast to anything” (129).

Leonard’s relationship with Shelley both suffers and benefits from his introversion. At first, his awkward socializing is a barrier to making a concerted effort to get to know Shelley. Persevering, Leonard observes other people to get a better sense of what “normal” clothing and conversations look like. Although Leonard is mimicking conventional behavior, he is genuine in his communication—something that the novel hints is also a result of social maladroitness. He and Shelley have a real connection, so when Shelley pulls back from their burgeoning romance, Leonard does not give up. He makes amends by sharing his book project, aimed at young readers like Shelley’s son, bridging the gap between his emotional intelligence and awkwardness by demonstrating that he understands how important her role as a mother is to her.

Paul, too, is an intelligent, largely solitary man. Like Leonard, he enjoys learning and is contemplative. His musings on the ever-expanding universe and his Judo lessons characterize Paul as a man who is “hungry” for knowledge of the world. At the same time, Paul seeks out solitude: He enjoys waking up early to start the day alone and is happy to only have a part-time job that does not allow much opportunity for friendship with his co-workers. He begins the novel content to limit his social world to his family and one friend.

Paul needs connection that enables his preference for often being by himself. He remains in his parents’ home because he loves Peter and Helen and because they do not regard his extreme introversion with judgment. Instead, they offer him the kind of companionship he wants, such as playing board games. Paul also demonstrates his need for connection in his visits to Mrs. Hawthorn, who benefits from his warmth without needing him to be socially engaged. The two do not talk, but Paul can tell that she values his presence, and he feels good about bringing someone else happiness. When Paul does finally choose a career, he finds one that makes use of his particular knowledge base: He is uniquely qualified to explain the value of silence to a public whose interest in the artistry of mimes is waning. His choice to share his appreciation for silence with people evidences a desire to connect with others on a larger scale.