In his depiction of urban life, John Dos Passos captures the essence of a haunting cityscape through the metaphor of a ghost. This specter represents the remnants of the past, lingering in the shadows of downtown New York. The imagery of a small, twisted ghost in a black cloak evokes a sense of unease, reflecting the gritty, historical layers of the bustling streets that tell stories of both despair and resilience.

The ghost symbolizes the memories and experiences that shape the identity of the city, reminding us of the inhabitants who have come and gone. As it hops along the grimy streets, it showcases the contrast between the vibrancy of life and the solemnity of history, illustrating how the urban environment is intertwined with personal and collective narratives that persist through time.