Themes:
* Importance of Hope: The entire story revolves around the characters clinging to hope, despite facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. This theme likely reflects DuPrau's own belief in the power of hope and optimism, even in the face of adversity.
* Value of Knowledge and Curiosity: Lina and Doon, the protagonists, succeed because of their curiosity and desire to learn, particularly about the city's history and the forgotten technology. This emphasizes the value of seeking knowledge and questioning the status quo, which could reflect DuPrau's own view on education and exploration.
* Dangers of Unchecked Power: The story critiques the corruption and complacency of those in power, who prioritize their own needs over the well-being of the city's inhabitants. This suggests DuPrau's concern about unchecked power and the need for transparency and accountability within leadership.
* Importance of Community and Collaboration: The protagonists' success relies on their ability to work together and trust each other. This highlights the value of community and collaboration in overcoming obstacles, which likely reflects DuPrau's own perspective on the strength of unity and cooperation.
Influences:
* Social Injustice: DuPrau has stated in interviews that she was inspired by real-world events and social injustices to write "City of Ember." The dystopian setting with limited resources and inequality mirrors the realities of poverty and social disparity in many societies.
* Environmental Concerns: The story's emphasis on the depletion of resources and the consequences of unsustainable practices could reflect DuPrau's own concern about environmental issues and the need for responsible resource management.
It's important to note that:
* Authors are not simply conduits for their own biases, but rather storytellers crafting worlds and characters with their own unique perspectives.
* Readers can interpret these themes and messages differently based on their own experiences and beliefs.
Ultimately, the impact of DuPrau's biases in "City of Ember" is to create a story that resonates with readers on a deeper level, prompting reflection on important issues and prompting readers to consider their own role in creating a better world.