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Driving to Pasadena and a trail running up Arroyo Seco…

“Driving to Pasadena and a trail running up Arroyo Seco Canyon behind Jet Propulsion Laboratory,...I simply want some solitude; a reprieve from raucous car exhausts, slamming doors, loud radios in the neighborhood, barking dogs defending apartment balconies, and boisterous arguments among loving…” quote by Howard Smith
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““Driving to Pasadena and a trail running up Arroyo Seco Canyon behind Jet Propulsion Laboratory,...I simply want some solitude; a reprieve from raucous car exhausts, slamming doors, loud radios in the neighborhood, barking dogs defending apartment balconies, and boisterous arguments among loving partners... A trail guide suggests parking by the laboratory, but the easily accessible lot conjures anxious thoughts. Is parking permissible for the public? Are cars parking here targets for thieves? Is the lot being watched this very minute by desperados? Welcome to Los Angeles.””

Howard Smith

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The author seeks quiet away from urban noise, questioning public parking safety near a research lab.

In simple terms: Desire for peace in a noisy city.

Key Takeaway

Find calm, assess parking risks.

Themes

solitude urban life security environment personal reflection

Mood

contemplative anxious

Type

personal essay urban commentary

When to use this quote

  • city walk
  • park planning
  • solo hiking
  • urban escape

Key Concepts

public space urban noise personal safety

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance solitude with safety?
  • What alternatives exist for quiet spaces?
A Different Perspective

Safety may be uncertain; personal perception influences comfort.

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