I'm unable to report that for me an a.e. is the feeling of being loved as it is for William, but there are times when a gratifying part of the glow comes from a sense that the creator "sees" me, knows how to "get to" me in a convivial way, and he has purposely done so. When in my twenties I first encountered Salinger's short stories I, like others my age, felt a special connection with this guy.
Something comparable also occurs when I see a great actor perform. When I get an a.e. from a great painting, I can say, "Wow, this guy knows how to talk to me!" And yet I can also feel he is oblivious to me. I don't feel the painter of "Sunflowers" has any concern for me personally.
