“(W)ithout contrast, how does one appreciate the different forms that joy can take?”

This comment is made in reference to Um-Helat’s appreciation for those who choose to fly in celebration of the Day of Good Birds and those who choose not to. The quotation brings to the surface one of the text’s major points: the strength of diversity. Um-Helat is only a utopia because they accept all types and beliefs as equal. This same idea recurs in many other stories including “The Trojan Girl” and “Non-Zero Probabilities.”

“He has made his fellow citizens happier, and there is no finer virtue.” 

This quotation refers to a man whose ladybug pin inspires joy in those around him on the Day of Good Birds. It reveals that happiness is more important to a healthy society than financial bounty—an idea which continues to resonate throughout the collection. Other stories that indicate mental health is more important than monetary wealth include “The Effluent Engine” and “The You Train.”

“To care for one another. That is a city’s purpose, they believe—not merely to generate revenue.”

This quotation describes the citizens of a utopia called Um-Helat. It draws attention to the collection’s anti-capitalist bent. The collection includes several examples of how capitalism is destructive rather than constructive. This quotation demonstrates Jemisin’s belief that compassion is more valuable than money.