Helen’s imagination
Helen is a paradoxical character who imagines New York is submerged in water. Initially, Helen worked as an art historian, but now she spends most of her time at Sid's studio to put her creativity in place. When Helen shares her imagination with others, no one believes such a disaster can happen in New York. Ironically, Helen's imagination becomes a reality when a vicious Hurricane Sandy attacks New York.
The irony of Hurricane Sandy
The author depicts the novel as impressionistic, focusing on the aftermath of September 2001. From the introductory chapters, there is an expectation of an impending disaster in New York. For instance, the major expected historical disaster to attack New York was Hurricane Sandy caused by Mother Nature instead of the terrorist attack in September 2001. Paradoxically, Hurricane Sandy did not occur, and instead, New York was struck by a strong storm that left the city in devastating damage. Consequently, the actual disaster that affected New York contradicts the expected one, but the damage still occurred.
The paradox of Elizabeth
The reader expects Elizabeth to be the happiest person in the entire narrative, but she is not. Elizabeth is the tenant of the apartment where Simone and Marie live. However, Elizabeth is not confident because she doubts herself. Consequently, Elizabeth is not happy despite having everything Simone and Marie desire. The implication of Elizabeth’s life is a true manifestation of vanity in life despite owning what other people desire to have.
