“New York always changes. We who become cities are evolving, dynamic entities, constantly adjusting to the needs of our citizens, endlessly pushed and pulled by state politics and international economies.”

Jemisin envisions New York City as a city in flux, ever-evolving and growing into something new. This is in sharp juxtaposition to the desires of the Ur, who want homogeneity and consistency. However, New York City’s growth and change cannot be stopped, as the addition of Jersey City to the New York City avatars illustrates.

“She’s been playing the long game, stifling progress and weakening cities to make them easier to destroy, and once you know what to look for, the cancer is everywhere.”

Neek compares the influence of the Ur on cities across the globe to cancer, noting that when his father had cancer he found it easier to ignore the problem than to face the harsh reality of treatment and medical debt that acknowledging it would entail. Similarly, many cities seem to be in denial about the threat that the Ur pose, suggesting that they would rather meet oblivion than face the destructive force that threatens them. Only New York City, with its particular blend of creativity and courage, is able to confront the foe.

“As she watches, variables fill themselves into the equation and begin cycling with increasing speed. Counting down, as the train’s wheels scream and the subway car rocks faster and faster.”

Padmini uses math to understand the world around her. This illustrates how each of the boroughs plays into their unique strengths and abilities to care for the city. Jemisin highlights the joys of individuality and difference by including primary characters who approach the world in very different ways but can create harmony as a result.