The quote, "There was nothing of the flaneur about the Bowery boy," highlights a distinct characterization of a young man from the Bowery, a neighborhood known for its working-class culture. It suggests that this individual does not possess the leisurely, observant qualities typically associated with a flaneur—someone who strolls through the city, enjoying and reflecting on urban life. Instead, the boy is likely depicted as more grounded or practical, lacking the aesthetic detachment of an observer.

This characterization points to the contrasts between different social classes and lifestyles in the narrative of "The Gem Collector" by P.G. Wodehouse. Wodehouse often creates vivid character types that embody their environments, and the Bowery boy's lack of flaneur-like traits emphasizes his connection to a more dynamic, unadorned world. This reflection enriches the story and highlights themes of class, identity, and the varied experiences of urban life.