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.