Dystopia vs. New York
Frighteningly enough, the name that keeps coming to mind for me lately is Margaret Atwood. Her Handmaiden’s Tale and similar novels about not-to-distant, very scary futures have been running through my head, try as I might to ignore our dysfunctional and divisive politics.
The notion that behavior for which we’d send a five-year-old to his room – lying, bullying, cheating, breaking laws, mocking people, inciting violence – is accepted as normal has me appalled. The idea that this behavior, plus sexual assault and racism, are the new form of leadership has me terrified. I don’t find it funny, or just hyperbole; it’s simply disgraceful.
Such behavior is way too juvenile and unkind for my taste; I prefer civility. Or, as I’ve said about certain jobs, neighborhood squabbles, and boards on which I served, “I didn’t like junior high the first time around.” I was rather hoping to get through a well-earned retirement without this nonsense. It’s way too much drama for me, and I always prefer drama on the stage, not in my life.
Immersing myself in New York City for a few weeks helped. We saw lots of theater and stayed busy enough that I could ignore much of the drama in the news. We also enjoyed comedy, many tours and lectures, a couple of cabarets and lots of really good food. Here’s a scene from wandering around Greenwich Village, searching out “storied bars” and our favorites little shops for coffee and chocolates.
Good for you, Jonathan! Every little bit we can do to object to the craziness helps. I particularly like your books for the grandkids idea.
Love it, and completely relate… I’m making an effort to purchase this year’s 10,000 banned books – particularly the illustrated books for the grand kids.
Thanks, Barb! Very interesting. Hope you’re doing well.
I saw this article in the NYT. It reminded me of you: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/04/travel/sketching-watercolors-vacation-hobby.html?unlocked_article_code=1.v04.Sb7n.xo8jOKWi8rx_&smid=url-share
Robyn, you’re right, of course. We can’t ignore or implicitly condone such bad behavior. A little respite goes a long way.
You are so right, Beth! Laughter is physiologically the antidote to stress, and much needed.
That it is, Michelle. I’m grateful to have the diversion.
Beth… I love the painting. But alas! The cruelty is beyond belief. I am distraught, not only at the abhorrent behavior, but also the ability of so many to buy into it. It is frightening. I’m glad you found a little relief. I have as well in Palm Springs but I do not want to ignore it. We have to speak out. This is not the country I want to live in.
Glad you are taking care of your mental health! I’m watching a lot of comedy because laughter is medicine and we all need HUGE does right now!
New York sounds like a perfect diversion. We all have to cope the best that we can. It’s going to be a bumpy ride for the next 4 years!