I have finally decided that when, or if, I ever end up living in New York City, I will have to have money growing out of my ears. Seriously. I'll have to be so rich that it doesn't even phase me when I dole out $12 for a movie ticket or $50 for spaghetti and meatballs (which I end up puking several hours later anyway). I have been to NYC over a dozen times, and every time I manage to see a part of town I had never seen before. To be bored in this city is to be completely blind and uninspired. It never gets old. Over the years as I have visited various friends, I see the same lifestyle pattern among all of them - even if they are from different social circles. There is something about this city that sucks you into the consumerist, materialistic, high-society-esque competition. You are not a true New Yorker unless you have certain items or social activities to show for it. Beelining to 5th Avenue to throw down a couple thousand at Prada, Gucci or Ferragamo for wallets, belts or shirts. Casually strolling into a watch store to try on $8000 watches (brands I've never heard that make Rado and Cartier seem trite). Packing your closet with Jimmy Choos, Manolo Blahniks and Chloe bags (thanks to Carrie Bradshaw's influence). Leaving your stainless steel refrigerator immaculately empty but for a few redbulls and countless bottles of champagne and vodka. "Why cook when there are over 10,000 restaurants in this city?" I won't argue with that.
I can't judge - this is New York. These are just a few of the many unique, extravagant, flamboyant and loveable characteristics that make this city. It's brimming with financiers, bankers, lawyers, businessmen, CEO's and other fancy titles. It's just that I can't help but be taken aback during every visit. It never ceases to amaze me. Every New Yorker has an "image" to uphold. There are certain standards, almost expected by your peers and faceless neighbors, to live by if you choose to reside in Manhattan. I don't know how students survive this city.
Nevertheless, I am always enticed. I have a love-hate relationship with New York City. I hate the overbearingness, fast-pace and superficiality when I'm there, but still manage to deeply crave the contrasting architecture, modernity and street personalities when I return to the conservative, drab town we call Washington DC. So I keep myself at a distance. Like a bad boy I have had a crush on my whole life, I know he is not good for my soul. He is certainly not comforting or able to provide warm companionship. He is not compatible with my heart, nor is he a viable long-term option. No matter how many friends I am surrounded by, the city swallows me whole and flaunts an air of loneliness. But he still offers unforgettable experiences that no other can. I will continue to enjoy sporadic flings with him when I crave his bold company, but will eventually run back to the safe and comforting arms of the place I call home.
3 comments:
Are there any black people in Manhattan? Word on the street, if you make enough money you can move away from black people up there. I heard Woody Allen hasn’t seen a black person in 10 years!
I also heard that they have rats as big as small dwarfs. Is that true?
you sound like me before i moved...enamoured
i am still enamoured, though with different things
i love how i've set up shop. i have my deli and my grocery store, my favorite path, my favorite bum. it feels like home, and because of the close proximity to other people i feel surrounded by energy every day
:)
I am moving to Jersey City... Manhattan is like the bad boy you had a crush on, but jersey is like that friend you only call when your cool friends are busy.
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