So why am I an A's fan? Because, from 1901 to 1954, they were the Philadelphia Athletics. Philadelphia is my home town. The A's were the team I loved as a kid, and no gap of space or time can fray that bond.

In this quote, Richard Corliss explains his deep, lasting connection to the A's baseball team, specifically the Philadelphia Athletics. He reflects on how his support for the team is rooted in his hometown of Philadelphia, where the A’s played from 1901 to 1954 before relocating. Corliss emphasizes that despite the team’s relocation and the passage of time, his emotional bond with the A's remains unchanged. This highlights the enduring nature of childhood loyalties and how they can last a lifetime.

Corliss’ statement also reveals the power of nostalgia and how formative experiences from childhood shape one's identity and passions. The A’s were the team Corliss loved as a child, and no external circumstances—such as the team moving to a different city—could diminish that connection. This sense of attachment to a sports team is often a significant part of a person’s cultural identity, tied to memories of family, community, and personal history.

By mentioning that no “gap of space or time can fray that bond,” Corliss is expressing how unwavering and resilient this connection is, regardless of changes in the team’s history or the distance between him and his hometown. His love for the A's is an enduring part of who he is, transcending physical and temporal changes. It reflects the idea that sports fandom can be a lifelong commitment based on deep personal roots.

Ultimately, Richard Corliss’ quote highlights the lasting nature of loyalty to a sports team and the emotional connection that often comes with being a fan. For Corliss, being an A’s fan is not just about following a team—it’s about honoring his heritage and the memories tied to his childhood. This illustrates how powerful and enduring fandom can be, often remaining a part of one's identity no matter where life takes them.