New York's Timeless Tales

Few cities have the dynamic personality and narrative power of New York City. Its vibrant society, streets, history, and energy are more than just a setting or backdrop. A long-time muse for storytellers, New York City is a character in its own right. This was particularly evident in two books that I read this year: the contemporary novel Mrs. by Caitlin Macy and the historical narrative The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray. In both stories, the city isn't just a backdrop but a vital, living part of the story. Both offer a window into the high society of New York but from different eras and perspectives.

Earlier this year, I read The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray – it had been voted Goodreads Best Historical Fiction 2021, which is how it made it to my To Be Read List. The story takes place in early 20th-century New York when the city became a beacon for cultural development and a testament to the era’s social complexities. The Morgan Library, where much of the story unfolds, is described as a place where "the pulse of the city felt more like a heartbeat," encapsulating the city's impact on the characters' lives and decisions. It is the story of Belle da Costa Greene, the remarkable librarian of the Morgan Library, who navigates the complexities of New York society while concealing her African-American heritage.

Transitioning from the early 20th century to the present day, Caitlin Macy's Mrs. provides a starkly different yet equally compelling view of New York City. In Mrs., Macy vividly portrays the upper echelons of New York, turning the city's elite social circles into a battleground of wits and status. Through her intricate depiction of the social web, where wealth and power play crucial roles, we see the lives of characters like Gwen Hogan and Phillipa Lye unfold. Macy eloquently captures the essence of New York, a city of 'eight million strangers,' to underscore the paradox of intimacy and isolation that defines urban life. In her narrative, every street and building in New York pulsates with life, contributing significantly to the story’s progression.

While Mrs. showcases contemporary New York with its modern dilemmas and social dynamics, The Personal Librarian offers a glimpse into the city's past. This historical narrative illuminates New York's opulence and the burgeoning of its cultural institutions. Described as a city of 'glittering lights and hidden shadows,' it mirrors the characters' ambitions and secrets. In both novels, the city's distinctive architecture, relentless energy, and diverse populace are not just passive backdrops. They act as catalysts, driving the story forward and influencing the characters' journeys.

Caitlin Macy captures the unique essence of New York City in Mrs., stating, "In New York, more than anywhere else, the past and the present run side by side." This intertwining of eras adds to New York's allure, making it an ideal literary character. Its ability to encapsulate and enhance complex narratives is unmatched, a testament to its timeless and multifaceted character.

New York as a character is not the only similarity these stories share. Both books skillfully explore themes of class, identity, and societal expectations. Mrs. examines today’s social ranks and the often-concealed challenges that exist under an appearance of flawlessness. The Personal Librarian, on the other hand, delves into the historical constraints and racial prejudices of early 20th-century society, with Belle da Costa Greene maneuvering these challenges with grace and intelligence. The story provides a glimpse into the city’s past, where societal norms and cultural expectations were markedly different yet equally complex.

Both stories contribute significantly to understanding New York City’s social fabric. They highlight how the city's societal norms influence individuals, a theme as relevant today as it was in the past. We see the diverse yet consistent influence of New York City in shaping the narratives and characters. While these novels were set in different times, they both showcase the enduring impact of the city on individuals and society.

As a former New Yorker, reading these novels was a journey through time – revisiting familiar streets and landmarks through different lenses. Mrs. and The Personal Librarian are a testament to New York City's enduring impact as a muse for storytelling. For those captivated by the city's ever-changing narrative and its influence on individuals and society, these books offer a compelling and insightful exploration of the Big Apple's multifaceted personality.