What does the city of Montreal symbolize in the novel?

Montreal symbolizes a broader world influencing Dunstan’s development because it serves as a crucial point of connection between various facets of his life and the larger societal and cultural currents at play. Throughout "Fifth Business," Dunstan's experiences in Montreal expose him to diverse influences, including education, the arts, and the complexities of urban life.

The city represents a space where Dunstan grapples with his identity and the expectations placed upon him, illustrating how external environments shape personal growth and self-discovery. The interactions and events that unfold in Montreal provide Dunstan with contrasting perspectives that lead him to reflect on his past and the roles of other characters in his life. Thus, Montreal stands as a symbol of the broader forces that contribute to Dunstan’s journey and understanding of himself and the world around him.