"The notion that the public accepts or rejects anything in modern art is merely romantic fiction. The game is completed and the trophies distributed long before the public knows what has happened"

Tom Wolfe's quote suggests that the public's opinion on modern-day art is unimportant and does not contribute to the success or failure of art in general. He argues that the video game is already over, and the awards have actually been given out prior to the general public even understands what has happened. This idea challenges the concept that art is developed to please the masses, as it highlights the restricted function of the public in creative endeavors. Rather, the focus is on the opinions of critics, fellow artists, and market specialists, who form the discourse surrounding modern-day art. Overall, Wolfe's text shows an important perspective on the role of the public in art and highlights the complex and elaborate dynamics that operate in the art world.