Part of speech: Noun

Definition: a divine imparting of knowledge or power

Source:http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/afflatus?show=0&t=1387341797

Meaning: I read this word in “A Literary Visitor Strolls in From the Airport” in the lines:

“The afflatus of the city’s bowels — now we’re getting into the real body of the city.”

I think it means that New York city provides an feeling of inspiration because this relates to the context where the whole message of the article shows the glory of New York City.