What is the Literary Map of NYC?

The Literary Map of NYC is an interactive digital project that maps fictional narratives onto the real geography of New York City. By connecting literary quotes and passages to their actual locations, we create a unique layer of storytelling that enriches how we experience the city.

Our Mission

We believe that literature has the power to transform how we see and understand places. By mapping the imaginary lives of fictional characters onto real NYC locations, we invite you to explore the city through the eyes of writers who have captured its essence in their work.

How It Works

Each pin on our map represents a location mentioned in a work of fiction set in New York City. Click on any location to read the relevant passage and discover how writers have imagined these spaces. From the Brooklyn Bridge in Paul Auster's works to the streets of Harlem in Toni Morrison's Jazz, each citation adds another layer to the city's rich narrative tapestry.

The Collection

Our database includes hundreds of literary citations from classic and contemporary works, featuring authors like:

  • Paul Auster
  • Jonathan Lethem
  • Don DeLillo
  • Toni Morrison
  • Jay McInerney
  • Teju Cole
  • Sylvia Plath
  • Kurt Vonnegut
  • And many more...