The Colossus of New York

The Colossus of New York was published in 2003, just two years after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. This timing places the book firmly within the context of post-9/11 New York City, a period marked by profound changes in the city’s physical landscape, social dynamics, and collective psyche. Whitehead initially began working on The Colossus of New York in 2000 as a side project, but the 9/11 attacks prompted him to revisit the project with a renewed focus and seriousness. The essays in the book, while not explicitly about 9/11, reflect the heightened sense of vulnerability and introspection that characterized this era.

The 9/11 attacks fundamentally altered New York City’s physical and emotional landscape. The destruction of the World Trade Center left a gaping hole in the city’s skyline and psyche, prompting a period of intense grief, reflection, and eventual rebuilding. In the immediate aftermath, New Yorkers experienced a surge of unity and resilience. This manifested in countless acts of kindness, solidarity, and a renewed appreciation for the city and its inhabitants.

However, as the initial shock subsided, the city entered a complex phase of recovery and transformation. The post-9/11 period was characterized by several key elements that reshaped the city’s fabric.