Fabian’s music is a symbol of Vulnerability as the Key to Authentic Masculine Identity. He has studied music and played the violin for many years. He is so musically talented that he was offered a spot on the Toronto Symphony. Although honored, Fabian gave up the position to pursue his own solo career. His relationship with his craft conveys his willingness to be vulnerable, show emotion, and express himself freely. When Ryan hears him perform at the Lighthouse for the first time, he is overwhelmed by the beauty of Fabian’s performance:

It was the most beautiful thing Ryan had ever heard; haunting in a way that sent sparks dancing down Ryan’s spine and into his abdomen. Fabian’s voice was kind of soft and high, but also clear and confident. The music could probably be called pop, but it was so complex that Ryan wasn’t sure it fit any category (49).

Diction including “beautiful,” “haunting,” “sparks,” “dancing,” “soft,” “high,” “clear,” and “confident” conveys the nuance and depth of Fabian’s music. The same is true of Fabian’s character and expression of masculinity. He is not easily categorizable because he presents in a more androgynous way. He is also soft-hearted and kind while being self-assured and outspoken. Fabian is unafraid to express his sexuality and embodies Ryan’s perfect guy: someone who discards stereotypes and is authentically himself despite what his family and society expect of him.

The furniture that Ryan buys for his apartment is a symbol of commitment and change. For years, Ryan has been traded from team to team, moving from city to city without ever feeling settled. Because of this pattern with his work, Ryan feels reluctant to commit to his life in Toronto when he first starts playing for the Toronto Guardians. He tells his sister that “[t]here’s no point in buying furniture if [he’s] just gonna be traded again” (70). However, this way of life precludes Ryan from feeling at home. He doesn’t allow himself to get comfortable or even seek belonging because he is afraid of having to let go of whatever life he creates.

When he decides to order IKEA furniture in Toronto, he makes a decision to commit to his new life—even if it means having to leave it someday. Just adding the “items to his cart” grants him a sense of excitement (70). Furnishing his apartment is Ryan’s way of creating room for newness and possibility. He doesn’t think he’s ready to start dating again, but buying furniture shows that he is beginning to imagine inviting someone over and letting someone into his life.