"Some people read, or pushed buttons on their smart phones, but most just stared without expression at the floor or the garish overhead posters for Dr. Zizmor’s cosmetic dermatology." -Melissa Febos, as quoted in her article about publicly crying in New York. Oh how true this is - whether it's when walking, taking public transportation, riding elevators, or talking with friends, New Yorkers look down. Maybe it's because there are so many people around them at all times that it would be overwhelming to even attempt to connect. Maybe it's a defense mechanism or a way of appearing cold and tough and disinterested in the surrounding chaos. Either way, it's a phenomena that never ceases to intrigue (though I am certainly guilty of it too at times).
Here are some images of Manhattanites avoiding human contact, multi-tasking and engaging in social networking. Enjoy!
We look down on the bus (look carefully: you will see at least 5 people staring at screens).
We look down -- and we look good doing it.
We look down (but sometimes we take breaks to look up so we don't bump into things).
We look down, even when surrounded by beautiful things.
We look down (even when we're supposed to be watching our children... yes, that's both parents. Actually, it doesn't even look like there's a child in that stroller. Maybe the parentals left it at home because they were staring at their phones).
We look down, even when there's a fire in our apartment building (hi Jill!)
We look down even when our friends would rather we talk to them.
THE LAST WORD (OR PICTURE):
And finally, even New York babies look down.
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