Sky Tower

Sky Tower is the headquarters of the narrator’s employer, the law firm of Seasons, Ustis & Malveaux. It is described as “the tallest obelisk in the state” (32). For the narrator, it represents the ultimate image of success and upward mobility. When the novel begins, the narrator’s office is located on the 59th floor, but his promotion eventually leads him to the coveted 62nd floor. Because of its height, he can view it from all over the city, and it provides a concrete focal point for his aspirations.

Tiko

The Tiko, short for “Tikoloshe” (88), is the oldest housing project in the City, and a site of interest for local politicians. The author depicts the ways that local politicians use the Tiko as a way to increase surveillance, policing, and control over the City’s African-American population. The Tiko is also the location where the narrator grew up...