Homesick Quote by Maeve Brennan
““It is necessary to find one's own way in New York. New York City is not hospitable. She is very big and she has no heart. She is not charming. She is not sympathetic. She is rushed and noisy and unkempt, a hard, ambitious, irresolute place, not very lively, and never gay. When she glitters she is very, very bright, and when she does not glitter she is dirty. New York does nothing for those of us who are inclined to love her except implant in our hearts a homesickness that baffles us until we go away from her, and then we realize why we are restless. At home or away, we are homesick for New York not because New York used to be better and not because she used to be worse but because the city holds us and we don't know why.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: New York Reflections, 1970s
The city is a paradox of brilliance and grime, evoking love, restlessness, and an inexplicable attachment.
In simple terms: New York is both dazzling and harsh, creating a deep, puzzling longing.
Key Takeaway
Accept the city's contradictions while seeking personal peace.
Themes
city
longing
paradox
identity
restlessness
Mood
reflective
nostalgic
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- relocation decisions
- travel experiences
- urban living
- creative inspiration
- emotional coping
Key Concepts
urbanism
psychology
nostalgia
Questions to Reflect On
- Why does a place evoke such mixed feelings?
- How can you find balance between love for a city and personal well‑being?
A Different Perspective
The city's allure may mask personal discontent.
