Astonishing Quote by Gertrude Stein
“it is a surprising thing that the largest city in the world should have a population as gentle and pleasant and intimate and considerate and comforting as a little bit of a place where everybody knows everybody and everything, but astonishing or not it is perfectly true and the inhabitants of New York are just like that, and they are like that and this thing is a delightful, natural and gentle and sweet and comforting thing.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "New York," 1930s
Even the largest city can feel intimate and supportive when its residents know each other.
In simple terms: Cities can foster close, comforting community.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate neighborly connections in urban life.
Themes
community
urban life
human connection
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
observational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- neighborhood events
- local businesses
- public spaces
- community apps
Key Concepts
social capital
city sociology
Questions to Reflect On
- What small actions can make a city feel smaller?
- How do digital platforms affect neighborhood bonds?
A Different Perspective
Urban anonymity can hinder such intimacy despite efforts.
![“When I was younger, I was always described as happy-go-lucky. Then I drank and I partied - did all that stuff that might tell you maybe there was a little bit of untruth in that [description]. Now, the surprising thing is that when I say stuff, I actually mean it. I don't have to do the work of…” quote by Michael J. Fox](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/464/michael-j-fox-1653_bits_when-i-was-younger-i-was-always-describe_1109551.jpg)
![“What is the answer?" [ I [Alice B Toklas] was silent ] In that case, what is the question?” quote by Gertrude Stein](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/eec/gertrude-stein-667_answer_what-is-the-answer-i-alice-b-toklas-was_43063.jpg)
