Circles Quote by M. E. W. Sherwood
“Rome, like Washington, is small enough, quiet enough, for strong personal intimacies; Rome, like Washington, has its democratic court and its entourage of diplomatic circle; Rome, like Washington, gives you plenty of time and plenty of sunlight. In New York we have annihilated both.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “Urban Contrast” (published 1915)
Rome and Washington offer intimate, sunny environments for personal connections, unlike the bustling, impersonal New York.
In simple terms: Rome/Washington foster intimacy; New York feels crowded.
Key Takeaway
Seek environments that support personal relationships.
Themes
urban life
city comparison
social intimacy
Mood
contemplative
nostalgic
Type
observational
comparative
When to use this quote
- city planning
- relocation decisions
- travel experiences
Key Concepts
small capitals
large metropolises
work‑life balance
Questions to Reflect On
- What aspects of large cities can also nurture intimacy?
- How does personal preference shape city perception?
A Different Perspective
The view may romanticize smaller cities and ignore their challenges.
![“Tell them you came, and saw, and looked into my eyes and saw the shadow of the guard receding. Thoughts in time and out of season, the hitchinker stood by the side of the road and levelled his thumb in the calm calculus of reason. [...] Why does my mind circle around you? Why do planets wonder…” quote by Jim Morrison](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9ae/jim-morrison-1692_bird_tell-them-you-came-and-saw-and-looked-in_18280.jpg)