A prevalent theme is the exploration of the city's history. Time travel allows the characters and the readers to see how New York has changed, from its architecture to its social fabric. It can also be about the people who made the city what it is today. Writers often use time travel to bring those historical figures back to life in the context of New York City.
The theme of self - discovery is also quite common. As characters travel through time in New York, they often learn more about themselves. The city acts as a backdrop for their personal growth. The different eras of the city present different challenges and opportunities for the characters to face and in doing so, they understand their own identity better.
One common theme is the contrast between different time periods in the city. For example, comparing the hustle and bustle of modern - day New York with its more laid - back or different - in - nature past. Another theme could be the idea of lost love or missed opportunities that time travel can potentially fix or explore further.
One such novel could be 'The Time Traveler's Wife'. Although not solely focused on New York City, it has parts set there and involves time travel. The story of Henry and Clare's relationship across different times is truly captivating.
In crime fiction set in 70s New York, a prevalent theme was the exploration of the dark side of the city. This involved delving into the seedy underworld of prostitution, drug trafficking, and illegal gambling. Additionally, the theme of power and powerlessness was common. Ordinary citizens were often powerless against the forces of crime, while criminals vied for power among themselves. The city's nightlife, with its smoky bars and dimly - lit alleys, was often used to symbolize the hidden and dangerous aspects of the 70s New York in these crime stories.
The contrast between light and dark is a common theme. In the 70s, New York had a vibrant nightlife but also a seedy underbelly. For a teenage vampire, this could be a perfect backdrop. They are creatures of the night, so they would be drawn to the darker aspects of the city. But at the same time, they might long for the light, the normalcy of human life. There could also be themes of power and control. As vampires, they have power over humans, but as teenagers, they are still trying to figure out how to control their own lives and emotions.
One common theme is the search for acceptance. Gay individuals in New York City often face a journey of self - acceptance, and this is intertwined with their sexual experiences. Another theme could be the exploration of different sexual identities. The city's diverse population and culture allow for a wide range of sexual expressions.
I'd recommend 'The Alienist' by Caleb Carr. It's a great mystery set in late 19th-century New York City with a compelling plot and well-developed characters.
One such dystopian novel could be 'New York 2140' itself. It might depict a future New York with various challenges like environmental disasters, overpopulation, or social inequality that are typical elements in dystopian settings.
Probably the most common is about the gridlock. Everyone has a story of being stuck in the never - ending traffic, especially during rush hour. The cars are bumper - to - bumper and it seems like it takes forever to move just a few blocks.
One possible theme could be the idea of a city's past not being forgotten. The ghosts could represent the memories and history of New York that still linger.
One possible theme could be identity. The 'fool' might be struggling to find his or her place in New York City.
Once I visited Central Park in New York City. I saw a street artist there who was making amazing portraits with just charcoal. People were gathered around him, and it was like a mini art show right in the middle of the park. It was so cool to see how he captured the essence of each person he drew.