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Arts education Quote by Mohsin Hamid

“Slowly, even though I thought it would never happen, New York lost its charm for me. I remember arriving in the city for the first time, passing with my parents through the First World's Club bouncers at Immigration, getting into a massive cab that didn't have a moment to waste, and falling in…” quote by Mohsin Hamid
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““Slowly, even though I thought it would never happen, New York lost its charm for me. I remember arriving in the city for the first time, passing with my parents through the First World's Club bouncers at Immigration, getting into a massive cab that didn't have a moment to waste, and falling in love as soon as we shot onto the bridge and I saw Manhattan rise up through the looks of parental terror reflected in the window. I lost my virginity in New York, twice (the second one wanted to believe he was the first so badly). I had my mind blown open by the combination of a liberal arts education and a drug-popping international crowd. I became tough. I had fun. I learned so much. But now New York was starting to feel empty, a great party that had gone on too long and was showing no sign of ending soon. I had a headache, and I was tired. I'd danced enough. I wanted a quiet conversation with someone who knew what load-shedding was.””

Mohsin Hamid

About This Quote

Source Book: Exit West by Mohsin Hamid, 2017

The speaker reflects on how New York's initial excitement faded into emptiness after intense experiences and personal growth.

In simple terms: New York lost its magic after intense experiences.

Key Takeaway

Seek balance after intense periods.

Themes

disillusionment growth urban life

Mood

melancholic reflective

Type

personal narrative memoir

When to use this quote

  • post-college transition
  • career burnout
  • relationship fatigue
  • cultural immersion

Key Concepts

identity exhaustion nostalgia

Questions to Reflect On

  • What experiences have you outgrown?
  • How can you rediscover wonder in familiar places?
A Different Perspective

The nostalgia may overlook the city's ongoing vitality and new opportunities.

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