Notes:
-juxtaposition between nature and (man-made) buildings
-nature serves as a haven or “getaway” from hustle and bustle
-benches and natural elements encourage relaxation
-space brings people together: circular, winding shape; benches/seating/tables
-Shake Shack: food —> significant part of American culture; also serves to bring people together
-artistic factors (e.g. sculpture, fountain, etc.) draw eyes inward and foster discussion
-services all kinds of different people (e.g. playground for children, tables for adults, etc.)
In taking the time to carefully observe Madison Square Park, it became clear as to how the park itself, as well as actions of people gathered there, mimicked a “theater of social action” and a “space of significant collective drama”. What initially stood out to me was the overall structure of the park; although it occupies a relatively rectangular shape, many of the paths and designated seating areas were marked by curvature and and organic lines/shapes. I feel as if this was an attempt to reflect natural elements (e.g. trees, water, etc.) and make the park feel less divided. Furthermore, these natural elements serve to create a safe haven, protecting people from the hustle and bustle of the city right outside of its borders. Ultimately, the structure of the park encourages unity with nature and one another.
In addition to its structure, a (maybe surprising) major component of fostering unity within the park is Shake Shack. As we all know, food is a significant part of American (and arguably all) culture. Eating meals is a time to slow down, recharge, and often interact with others in a more purposeful manner. Although it’s extremely crowded during lunch hour, there is something undeniably unifying about this fact: all different people from all walks of life are taking a break to engage in one of the most basic and necessary human indulgences. People may not choose to interact with anyone else, but the space provides an opportunity to do so if desired.
Truly, every individual gathered in the park plays a special role in creating an interactive, unifying space. Like gears in a machine, each person is a piece of the whole; similar to trees, benches, or fountains, they too make up the entirety of Madison Square Park.
