Why does Papa state there are many in Copenhagen Number of the stars?

In "Number the Stars," Papa mentions that there are many people in Copenhagen to emphasize the city's bustling atmosphere and the diverse lives that intertwine within it. This statement also serves to highlight the contrast between the vibrant life in the city and the somber reality of the Nazi occupation during World War II. It underscores the theme of resilience amid hardship, suggesting that despite the darkness surrounding them, life continues in various forms.