Bill Bryson's book, "At Home: A Short History of Private Life," explores the ways in which modern life in London is intertwined with its Victorian past. He emphasizes that contemporary Londoners inhabit a city deeply shaped by the Victorians, whose influence still permeates daily life. This connection suggests that the legacy of Victorian architecture, culture, and societal norms continues to echo in today's urban environment.

The phrase "Modern Londoners live in a great Victorian city" highlights the enduring impact of the Victorian era on current lifestyles. By stating that the Victorians "lived through it," Bryson points to the uninterrupted evolution of the city, where historical context is crucial to understanding modern identity and habitation. Thus, Bryson invites readers to appreciate the historical layers that contribute to London’s character.