In "Take the Cannoli," Sarah Vowell humorously critiques the perception of New Yorkers, particularly when discussing the famed journalist Barbara Walters. Vowell highlights the irony of using Walters as a "secret weapon" in an argument about driving habits, pointing out that she famously does not drive. This statement serves to encapsulate the notion that certain cultural figures can represent broader societal attitudes or lifestyles, specifically that of Manhattan residents who may eschew cars and suburban comforts.

Vowell's commentary suggests that New Yorkers, like Walters, inhabit a unique world that distances them from typical American experiences such as car ownership and the associated joys of suburban life. Through this lens, the author conveys a playful disdain for the stereotype of Manhattanites as out of touch, while also acknowledging the appeal of their distinct lifestyle. Ultimately, her wit and sharp observations provoke reflections on urban vs. suburban identities in America.