What metaphors are used in The Vile Village by Lemony Snicket?

Town Hall is the massive building at the center of the V.F.D. It is a gorgeous and ornate marble building, but no one can see its beauty because it's constantly covered in crows. The Council of Elders regularly meets in Town Hall to discuss the thousands of rules they've put in place for all the V.F.D. residents. It serves as a symbol and metaphor for government and bureaucracy.