I have become a New Yorker. Certain changes in mentality occur, not noticeable at first. For example, it irks me a little too much when people take their own sweet time walking on the sidewalks, because let’s face it, some of us have places to get to, and a slow moving obstruction is the last thing any of us need.
Another thing that has changed is now I can immediately point out tourists. For example, one morning my friend and I were taking the 6 train down to Baruch, and a family of four entered at 68th street. First thing I noticed was the fact that it was a family. I thought about it, and realized just how uncommon it is to see a family travelling together on a New York City Subway. Usually bustling with crowds, it’s hard enough taking care of a wallet, let alone an entire family. When this family came on, he following conversation ensued.
Dad: “You better grab a seat squirt, these trains get crowded I hear.”
Son: “Sounds good dad.”
Mom (to dad): “Now you keep an eye on him you hear”
Dad: “Eh, don’t worry, he’s gotta see the big city world someday”
Then the conversation went on for a couple more stops. I, being the New Yorker I am, was reading the Washington Post on my phone during this exchange, not caring about anything but my destination.
The most interesting thing about this entire exchange had to be the fact that up until some time ago, I would have been the boy from a suburban town, seeing the city by myself for the first time., not understanding streets and avenues, befuddled by the obscenely complicated subway system, and awed by the enormity of it all. Now I am a part of the biggest city in the world. I have become a New Yorker.
A blur of a crowd, the life of a New Yorker
Credit: SVLUMA
I really like the comment you make about taking care of a wallet vs. taking care of the family. It’s true, you don’t normally see a whole family traveling together and it is a sign of a tourist. As a New Yorker it is really easy to pick up on these things, even outside the subway. The ones that don’t jay walk, or the people who walk looking up at the buildings are normally the ones not from here, and they stick out.
I couldn’t agree more with your post, less than two months ago I was still that suburban kid that you mentioned in your post, living and learning about the city for the first time, but now after a short two months; I already feel so integrated into the city. Additionally, I like the dialogue you included into this piece made it livelier for the reader.
I really agree with your post as well as Chris’s comment. I was on the train the other day when I saw a family of four. It was definitely unusual; I quickly glanced at each of them and noticed how differently they were dressed. Although it wasn’t too cold that day, they were all bundled up with hats, scarves, and gloves, and it seemed as though they came from somewhere of warmer climate and were unaccustomed to the colder weather. It was simply their appearance that made them stick out more than others.
I found the observation of the family to be the most interesting. It never occurred to me how true that was, that families don’t often travel together. I also found it very interesting how you associated a passive attitude with New Yorkers. I’m curious as to what other changes you’ve seen in yourself?