New York

The novel takes place in an unnamed city located in New York, United States. The novel suggests that Lizzie has lived in New York for most of her life; she works here, married here, and had a child here. Because New York is a major cultural center, Lizzie notes that she is surrounded by a people from a multitude of different racial and ethnic backgrounds. While Lizzie seems to appreciate the diversity that New York offers, the high number of immigrants living in the area eventually becomes a topic of concern. As the presidential election comes to an end, the present political climate harshens. Offill maintains that the setting is a modern day New York, as Lizzie faces current issues on immigration, capitalism, climate change, and much more. Though Lizzie cannot separate herself from the many social problems taking place in New York, and even considers moving...