Yes and I would take the inverse as well if I may... Some great street photography doesnt always tell the story, it essentially asks a question. Why is the man so sad? Why is a woman standing on a car etc.
Or as in this shot, why is a couple wrapped up all alone on a chilly beach with a storm advancing...
IOW to me a good photo compels the viewer to do something, think, laugh, cry, wonder...Something..
Yes, exactly! If art cannot draw out an emotional response, it's not art at all. It doesn't even need to be a positive response! Confusion and anger are legitimate responses as well.
I agree completely with your assessment on that photo of that couple. That's a really striking image.