It is by all odds the loftiest of cities. It even managed to reach the highest point in the sky at the lowest moment of the depression.
E. B. WhiteRead
There are roughly three New Yorks. There is, first, the New York of the man or woman who was born here, who takes the city for granted and accepts its size and its turbulence as natural and inevitable. Second, there is the New York of the commuter β the city that is devoured by locusts each day and spat out each night. Third, there is the New York of the person who was born somewhere else and came to New York in quest of something.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote illustrates three distinct perspectives of New York City based on one's relationship with it.
E. B. White's quote captures the essence of how one's experience and background shape their perception of New York City. It presents a nuanced view of urban life, highlighting the perspective of long-time residents, commuters, and newcomers. Each viewpoint offers a different appreciation or critique of the city's vibrant chaos and allure, reflecting broader themes of belonging and aspiration within urban environments.
Themes
New YorkCityPerspectiveUrban LifeExperience
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about urban experiences, I could use this quote to illustrate the different relationships people have with a city.
More from E. B. White
All quotes βIt isn't silence you can cut with a knife any more, it's interchange of ideas. Intelligent discussion of practically everything is what is breaking up modern marriage.
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The main thing I try to do is write as clearly as I can. Because I have the greatest respect for the reader, and if he's going to the trouble of reading what I've written -- I'm a slow reader myself and I guess most people are -- why, the least I can do is make it as easy as possible for him to find out what I'm trying to say, trying to get at. I rewrite a good deal to make it clear.
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A good farmer is nothing more nor less than a handy man with a sense of humus.
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A despot doesn't fear eloquent writers preaching freedom- he fears a drunken poet who may crack a joke that will take hold.
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All writing is communication; creative writing is communication through revelation-it is the Self-escaping into the open.
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