....and she speculated that the city would be cold, completely of itself, unconscious, that its every move would be transcendent, and that each of its hundred million flashing scenes would strike a moral lesson. Such a city would extend vision, intensify pity, telescope emotion, and float the heart the way the sea is gently buoyant with great ships. To do this it would have to be a cold instrument. And, despite its beauty, it would have to be cruel.
The narrative explores the idea of a city that functions autonomously, operating without self-awareness yet possessing a striking beauty. The author conveys a vision of a place where every moment and scene carries a profound moral significance. This city is depicted as one that enhances human perception and emotion, creating a mixture of awe and reflection as it mirrors the deep complexities of life, much like the sea supports ships.
However, this vision comes with a darker undertone. The city, while beautiful and capable of evoking strong feelings, is ultimately described as a cold and calculating entity. It suggests that its ability to inspire and evoke emotion rests on its inherent cruelty and detachment, presenting a paradox where beauty is intertwined with a lack of warmth and compassion, creating a captivating yet harsh existence.
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