The close quarters, their history, and Lenny’s vulnerability suggest that the tension between the two men will eventually collapse into passion. We are to understand on some level that Lenny is the epitome of what Hermin seeks to emulate in his compositions, and even, as he contemplates Lenny playing the piano for the last time, that his Homage to Schubert was really an homage to Lenny. Their dialogue leans heavily on references to romantic poetry and music, and although the romantic references often function to obscure the speakers’ true feelings, they also seem foundational to what would be a romantic relationship. Nonetheless, Hermin rejects Lenny’s love: