Every city has a sex and an age which have nothing to do with demography. Rome is feminine. So is Odessa. London is a teenager, an urchin, and, in this, hasn't changed since the time of Dickens. Paris, I believe, is a man in his twenties in love with an older woman.

Summary

This quote suggests that cities have personalities or characteristics that transcend their demographics. Rome and Odessa are described as feminine, evoking notions of grace and beauty. London is portrayed as a rebellious teenager, reflecting its historical identity as a city of urchins and street culture. Paris, on the other hand, is depicted as a man in his twenties enamored with an older woman, symbolizing its allure, sophistication, and timeless appeal. This quote highlights the idea that cities possess distinctive identities that capture their essence, beyond mere statistical measures.

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