In a cheap science fiction novel, a character named Fat discovers an insightful portrayal of the Black Iron Prison, reimagined in a distant future. The concept involves blending different historical and temporal settings, merging ancient Rome with twentieth-century California, as well as the futuristic world presented in "The Android Cried Me a River." This fusion emphasizes the idea of a continuous empire, where all of humanity is enveloped within the confines of the prison, oblivious to their captivity.

This narrative technique highlights the notion that individuals from various eras are metaphorically trapped inside the same oppressive structure, known as the Black Iron Prison. The walls of this prison symbolize the constraints that influence humanity throughout history, suggesting a pervasive existence that transcends time. The reflection on this trans-temporal captivity raises questions about awareness, freedom, and the cyclical nature of oppression across different civilizations.