Cases Quote by Christopher Walken
“Growing up in New York is like living in a horror museum because there are so many strange people walking the streets and riding the subways. You learn to develop a tough front if you live here, just in case you get into any kind of trouble and you need to talk your way out of it.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, 2015
New York's diverse, intense environment forces residents to develop a defensive demeanor for safety.
In simple terms: NYC life demands a tough front.
Key Takeaway
Stay alert, stay adaptable.
Themes
urban life
survival
identity
Mood
gritty
realistic
Type
observational
advice
When to use this quote
- commuting
- night shifts
- social interactions
- conflict avoidance
Key Concepts
sociology
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does city life shape your behavior?
- Can you balance toughness with vulnerability?
A Different Perspective
A defensive front can isolate and increase stress.
![“I don't like to go into subways, because I always see them [ mice]. They are like my naguales [kindred animal spirits]. They follow me. I have literally stepped off of a plane in Phoenix and gotten my bag and stepped out on the curb and they'll be a big desert rat walking right in front of me.” quote by Sandra Cisneros](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/957/sandra-cisneros-862_animal_i-don-t-like-to-go-into-subways-because_611382.jpg)
![“[As in the case of] alcohol prohibition, illegality has driven organized crime, sent countless people to jail, and killed many thousands. Repression does not work.” quote by Sam Branson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/212/sam-branson-36458_alcohol_as-in-the-case-of-alcohol-prohibition-il_8703.jpg)
