In this excerpt from "A Memory of Light" by Robert Jordan, the character Mat reflects on the possibilities of a future where a Tinker city could exist. He imagines a scene where the Tinkers would dominate the color dye market, monopolizing access to vibrant hues. This scenario raises concerns about the consequences of such control on societal expression and individuality.

Mat's thought suggests that if the Tinkers obtained all the colored dye, the rest of the world might be confined to wearing only brown. This highlights a broader theme of imbalance and uniformity against the backdrop of diverse cultures and identities. The idea resonates with the fear of losing uniqueness and richness in society due to the overpowering influence of a single group.