# Modernity and Technology in Manhattan Transfer

> Theme guide for Manhattan Transfer by John Dos Passos.

The novel emphasizes the impact of modern technology—skyscrapers, subways, ferries, telephones, and cars—as both awe-inspiring and oppressive, shaping human experience and accelerating the pace of life.

## Where it surfaces

- [IV: Skyscraper](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/manhattan_transfer_se/chapters/iv-skyscraper): The skyscraper, dirigible, and advertisements represent modern urban life, while Jimmy's hallucinatory experience of the city's mechanical and commercial rhythms highlights technology's impact.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/manhattan_transfer_se/themes/modernity_and_technology
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/manhattan_transfer_se/themes