The palette was conceived with the thought of how time affects colors, specifically from this light source either rising or sett. Within the figure's ear, a hook takes charge, grabbing the attention and direction of the figure, showing how the figure is not in charge of its own path.
This painting stemmed from the artists personal narrative at a time when he was being taken out of the studio, having a lot on his mind and not being able to focus due to elements out of his control.