The Soloist Chapters 1-6

In many ways, Steve Lopez can be considered a pioneer. His decision to write about Nathaniel Ayers for his column was a bold move in his career. His decision to befriend Ayers and take a great interest in him as a person was inspirational. Mental illness is too often considered a taboo subject and swept under the rug. Many people believe that individuals with mental illnesses are incapable of living normal lives and need to be put away from the rest of society. Through his words and actions, Lopez has taken the first step in helping people like Nathaniel; by making the public aware that they are full of potential.

When Lopez and Ayers became friends, two distinct worlds and perspectives collided. One was Nathaniel's world, the inside. Up until that point, Nathaniel lived much of his life trapped in his own head. He would interact with the strangers who appreciated his music, but was afraid of letting anyone too close. He obviously suffered some tragic times in his past and probably did not want to be reminded of them.

The other world was Lopez's, the outside. Lopez probably felt as if Nathaniel was a house with locked doors and he was looking for a window to peer inside. He wanted to help him as much as possible, but was not sure how or who to turn to. Although we are not sure how the story will end, and for people like Nathaniel the struggle is never really over, Lopez has helped to make a brighter future for him and many others in situations like his.