"An unflinching chronicle of gentrification in the twenty-first century, and a love letter to lost New York, by the creator of the popular and incendiary blog Vanishing New York"--Jacket
Fans of influential urban thinkers and cultural figures will find this book essential. It explores the intricate relationship between city life and creativity, drawing on the insights of renowned personalities like Jane Jacobs and Patti Smith. Through vivid storytelling and deep observations, it captures the essence of urban environments, making it a must-read for those interested in the dynamics of city living and the arts.
Exploring the impact of urban abandonment during lockdown, the author reflects on his newfound freedom in a transformed New York City. Amidst vibrant protests and spontaneous gatherings, he experiences a creative and joyful resurgence, free from societal constraints. As a transgender man, he intertwines personal narrative with psychoanalysis, literature, and queer theory, providing insights into the control of public spaces and the liberation of inner selves. This genre-bending work challenges conventional perceptions of place and identity.
The narrative follows a king who endures profound loss, as his family perishes in a volcanic eruption that devastates their island. Surviving against the odds, he grapples with the weight of being the Last King while discovering unexpected love. However, his journey is fraught with danger as he confronts his mortal enemies in a climactic battle for survival and legacy. The story weaves themes of resilience, love, and the quest for redemption as he strives to reclaim his rightful place.