Bigs Quote by Bill Bryson
“Hardly anyone ever leaves. This is because Des Moines is the most powerful hypnotic known to man. Outside town there is a big sign that says, WELCOME TO DES MOINES. THIS IS WHAT DEATH IS LIKE. There isn't really. I just made that up. But the place does get a grip on you.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Travel Writing, “Des Moines” excerpt, 2008
The city’s atmosphere feels oppressive, as if it exerts a hypnotic grip, though the claim is exaggerated.
In simple terms: Des Moines feels oddly oppressive.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how environments affect mood.
Themes
place
atmosphere
psychology
Mood
observational
humorous
Type
reflective
satirical
When to use this quote
- moving to a new city
- working remotely
- travel planning
- stress management
Key Concepts
urban studies
environmental psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your surroundings influence your mindset?
- Can you reshape a place’s impact on you?
A Different Perspective
Personal experience may differ; not everyone feels the same effect.
![“The only regret I have in my career, is my managers wanted a big payday, and I wanted four or five more fights before going in with [Larry] Holmes. That would have made all the difference.” quote by Gerry Cooney](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d63/gerry-cooney-20863_bigs_the-only-regret-i-have-in-my-career-is-m_1534.jpg)
