Although big cities like NY have public transportation which places strangers together for long periods of time, people usually do not converse on trains, buses, etc. The city provided us with these machines that gather people of all classes and backgrounds together, but people still choose anonymity over interpersonal connections.

Poe previously speaks about observing individuals of the city and placing them into different categories, as if they are not anonymous. However, this proves that one can get lost in the hustle and bustle of the city and choose to not be seen.

Connects to the idea of reading versus writing the city. For some reason, in only a peculiar state, he gained the power to read the city and indulge in its history. He gets to be a spectator of this city's individuals.

Reminds me of the Confidence Man, but also the Young Man's Guide----Both the Confidence Man and this excerpt describe how the men of "dashing appearance" are crafty and know what to do to steal from you. ----Both the Young Man's Guide and this excerpt discuss the dangers of the city and how one cannot trust everyone.

"The wheels might break us" the risk of leaving where you came from---losing/sacrificing part of oneself to achieve the "american dream"---"we had no way to resist" as if leaving humble beginnings is a requirement to succeed

idea similar to Mose's---working hard, not because the physical work was enjoyable but because it would lead to bettering the community, "of which they were a part of it". Instead of being a spectator, they rather be a part of the creation of the spectacle.

How do parks like Logan circle, for example, illustrate volatile behavior. It is thought in a way as the center and base of city, including Love Park, the fountain, and the art museum. It's an area that almost every Philadelphian has been to which shows that it links community in such a busy area.

Before the rise of new technology, including automobiles, to city residents, the countryside, open lands, and beaches were just inaccessible space. However, now that more families own cars, they are no longer trapped in the boundaries of the city and can explore to make those open spaces, places of value.

Is that a good thing? Dwelling appears to be of importance, a necessity, so if space is only dwelling, does that give space more power than place?

Part of dwelling is not solely focusing on mortals because they are only 1/4 of the fourfold. In order to dwell and "save the earth", we must always think of the earth, sky, and divinities as well. ----At first, I thought maybe I don't dwell because I rarely think of the earth and sky, but that is not true. The earth, sky, and divinities have a constant impact on my mortal life.

This still exists today. Women feel like they must dress a certain way, slightly guyish, so that they won't imply their sexuality. She can be a spectator, but mainly for herself, in order to prevent being a spectacle for men.

the idea that being a privileged, middle-class, white male allows one to ignore the existence of others and their struggles/adversities. Connects to “10 Hours of Walking in NYC as a Woman”-----women in cities do not have the privilege of being a spectator because multiple men view them as a spectacle, an object, something they can use their privilege/power to manipulate

What type of power does place offer? Aren't many spaces, places for some people? How can there be power in one place that's another's space. Where is the line/boundary drawn?

Through different definitions, this could describe LA or NY. LA provides the physical space that gives one freedom to explore and find a place where one feels comfortable. Whereas, NY has space in the sense of the numerous opportunities the city offers. People shift from one passion to another until they find the direction/career path they want to follow.

It's interesting how space is only given value when it becomes a place. Does that mean we value security more than freedom? Allotted meanings/value gradually tear away at the freedom spaces had before being defined.

What's the importance in applying meaning to every place and space? Why can't people just be?

Places without space can make one feel restricted/trapped. In NYC, all the opportunities and businesses are all packed into a small space, and as Didion explains, it's like being at the fair too long. LA to her, felt more like home. Maybe the space in LA is a reason for why she left.

The environment=NYC- has a fluid/malleable structure full of possibilities The observers= New Yorkers- have their own individual goals/purposes and can take what NYC offers and find their passion

Do cities, NYC in particular, have this necessary, identifiable pattern in its surroundings? Although NYC has an overall identity and personality that is recognized by many, it is also constantly changing.

The city cannot be completely understood or explored immediately. One cannot comprehend the depths of the city until after being immersed there for a while.

One does not watch/observe the city. One becomes a part of the city. (mozaic or melting pot?)

Does living in a city provide us with a "sense of balance and well-being?

New comers to NY view the city as a dream. Once one lives in the city, miraculous---mundane

anonymity

NY is temporary--eventually need an escape

NY is temporary. Eventually new-comers must escape.

City=idea/dream

similar to in The Coming Bachelor Girl and Alcott's guide because in both, the writer tries to warn them and explain why nothing productive or successful will come if one depends on inheritance or their families.

anonymity/loneliness

unrealistic

Ny is generally static

connects to The Coming Bachelor Girl

connects to today's undercover police officers.