If you have the guts to be yourself, other people'll pay your price.
John UpdikeRead
New York, like the Soviet Union, has this universal usefulness: It makes you glad you live elsewhere.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the contrasting feelings about New York City and the Soviet Union, hinting at their overwhelming nature that makes one appreciative of other places.
John Updike's quote humorously compares New York City to the Soviet Union, suggesting that both can be so intense or overwhelming that they create a sense of relief in living outside of them. The implication is that while they offer universal experiences or usefulness, their characteristics can also lead to a sense of discontent, making one feel fortunate to have alternatives.
Themes
New YorkSoviet UnionHumorContrastLocationAppreciation
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about urban life challenges, you might quote this to lighten the mood.
More from John Updike
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Museums and bookstores should feel, I think, like vacant lots - places where the demands on us are our own demands, where the spirit can find exercise in unsupervised play.
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The reader knows the writer better than he knows himself; but the writer's physical presence is light from a star that has moved on.
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To guarantee the individual maximum freedom within a social frame of minimal laws ensures - if not happiness - its hopeful pursuit.
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