Colson Whitehead, in his 2003 book, The Colossus of New York, highlights the importance of cherishing past living spaces in the bustling city known for constant change. He invites readers to reflect on their past homes, suggesting they are integral to personal transformation.
The protagonist in Whitehead’s Harlem crime trilogy, Ray Carney, embodies this theme in Cool Machine, the series’ final part. Ray, a furniture salesman in Harlem, often wonders if his products, from deluxe loungers to starter dinettes, provide comfort to families or individuals looking for solace. His reflections are grounded in nostalgia, a common sentiment among those who’ve called the city home for an extended time.
“Cool Machine” exudes a nostalgic tone, not due to Whitehead’s writing style, which remains vibrant, but because readers recognize this book as their last journey with its diverse characters. This conclusion reinforces the emotional connection and reflective trips Ray takes, emphasizing the end of an era both for him and for the readers.
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