In "The Fortress of Solitude," Jonathan Lethem explores the complex dynamics of Gowanus, where traditional roles of heroes and villains become blurred. The narrative highlights a superhero who intertwines the lives of criminals and victims, illustrating how their relationships are not clear-cut, and moral boundaries often overlap.

This setting reflects a deeper commentary on the societal issues present in urban environments, emphasizing that people are often shaped by the circumstances they face. In Gowanus, the experiences of individuals are interwoven, revealing that identity and morality can be more intricate than simple categorizations allow.