What is the importance of The Bagdad, N.Y.C., U.S. in the novel, Two Years Eight Months and Twenty-Eight Nights?

The Bagdad was the building in Manhattan in which Mr Geronimo occupied the first floor and basement. Its super was Sister Allbee, and on the top floor lived Blue Yasmeen whose story-telling-art was inspired by her dwelling place. Mr Geronimo’s apartment was narrow, and so was the entire building. It is described as being on the least fashionable block in the least fashionable neighborhood.