In "Istanbul: Memories and the City," Orhan Pamuk explores the deep emotional landscape of Istanbul, illustrating how the city's atmosphere impacts its residents. He suggests that the unique characteristics of Istanbul do not merely confine its people; rather, they provide them with a creative excuse to remain in a state of inaction. This reflection reveals how the city's essence influences the psychology of its inhabitants, granting them a sense of artistic freedom through their paralysis.

Pamuk's portrayal highlights the complex relationship between the city and its citizens, suggesting that the feelings of stagnation residents experience can be reinterpreted as a form of poetic engagement with their environment. The notion that this paralysis allows them to engage with the beauty and melancholy of Istanbul serves as a testament to the city’s profound impact on identity and creativity, ultimately pointing to a deeper understanding of their existence within a vibrant yet challenging urban landscape.