(no subject)

[lawnrrd]

I just saw Gangs of New York. I'm sure that after I've had some time to process it some more, I'll be able to say a lot about it, if I feel like it.

One point for now, though, that really has very little to do with the movie. I have rarely felt as though I belonged to anything. But this moment I feel that I belong to New York City and that it belongs to me. It's an odd feeling, but I think I like it.

(Those of you who were born and raised in New York City should feel free to regard this as a presumption on my part. Then again, you should also feel free not to.)

Comments

[roadnotes.livejournal.com]

Not all of New York City's children were born here. There are family by choice, as well as by blood and birthright here.

[lawnrrd]

I appreciate your saying that, and I appreciate the feelings behind it.

I think my real point is that now I don't just believe it intellectually: I feel it in my bones. And with that comes comfort: I recognize that there may be people who don't think I'm entitled to think of myself that way, but I can recognize their feelings without feeling I need to argue the point.

[reive.livejournal.com]

Right on.
I mean as a narrative the movie is a mess.
But your reaction -- that's what it's for.

[xrew.livejournal.com]

As a native, I think the right to call ones self a NY'er is simply reserved for those who live the life and love it. One who is always willing to embrace the filth and scum along with the glamor and wealth. NY is a city of contrasts and contradictions co-existing in and out of ballance. NY is not to be judged, but experienced and reflected upon.

It's the 'new transplants' who judge, comment and fail to embrace that piss me off when they think they understand. Not unlike the unly tourist in any town.