William Brevda has analysed the theme and symbolism of signs, such as in advertising, in the novel.[3] William Dow has examined the influence of the works of Blaise Cendrars on the novel.[4] Gene Ruoff has looked at the theme of social mobility with respect to artists in the novel.[5] Phillip Arrington has critiqued the ambiguity of the novel's ending.[6]
Josef Grmela has noted artistic similarities between Manhattan Transfer and the U.S.A. Trilogy.[7] David Viera has noted similarities between Manhattan Transfer and Angústia by Graciliano Ramos.[8] Gretchen Foster has examined the influence of cinema techniques on the form of the novel.[9] Michael Spindler has analysed the influence of visual arts on the novel.[10]
