Funny how an ordinary photo evokes strong feelings because of whatever associations we project onto them. I clearly remember the day, my sister came to visit me in Philly for an early b-day bash. Her timing was impeccable within days of her visit I was let go from the only steady job I had in Philly, I was crushed and terrified especially since I knew absolutely no one, had no family and the friends I had were not in the capacity to offer much help. For the first time I felt absolutely alone. Needless to say I did a fair amount of drinking and crying, sad tears and laughing tears followed by frustrated tears and tears of desperation. Fortunately I had my sister’s company and on her last day we walked to South Philly gorged on Sarcone’s chocolate biscottis, cheesesteaks, and nutella lattes from my favorite coffee shop in Philly. We grabbed a seat in the back, and the weekly paper and just enjoyed the moment. I happened to find a review for Ponyo and lamented the fact that I wouldn’t see the film with her, as it turned out I did watch the film with an equally enjoyable person. There was something about the late afternoon light; it felt so right as though I were the sole witness and beneficiary of its magical other worldliness.
The quality of light was enough to infuse meaning into the most banal or ordinary. It made me feel as though things would work out in the end. Much has changed since that summer, but the photo seems to bring me back to that one moment and I smile.
wow, how did I manage to get home again?
No idea, all a blur-crazy night. Had one too many drinks and a serious smoke (of the natural, organic variety), and now I need sleep. GLORIOUS SLEEP…
Left to my own devices I would make this my second home. Translation: stay until I get kicked out.
There are certain places where you can’t help but lose yourself. In Philadelphia I’m fortunate to have many-two of my favorites are Rittenhouse Square and Washington Square, the lovely Jane Jacobs mentioned these places in The Death and Life of Great American Cities. If you don’t know of Jane Jacobs, you should, the above mentioned book is a good introduction to her work and don’t let it’s hefty weight in pages intimidate, her writing is quite accessible to anyone and everyone interested in how cities work and thrive.
Back to my favorite outdoor spaces for a moment: they are favorites because it doesn’t matter what sort of day I’m having the minute I grab a seat, preferably with coffee close at hand, my mind goes blank. no thoughts. no worries. Just me, trees, passersby.
