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Acknowledge Quote by Sufjan Stevens

“I felt that there's an obligation when writing a piece about an urban expressway made in the 50s to acknowledge the context, and Robert Moses is sort of an iconic figure in New York, and he influenced the shape of the city more than anyone else before or after him. He was one of the most powerful…” quote by Sufjan Stevens
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“I felt that there's an obligation when writing a piece about an urban expressway made in the 50s to acknowledge the context, and Robert Moses is sort of an iconic figure in New York, and he influenced the shape of the city more than anyone else before or after him. He was one of the most powerful and influential civic architects in the world, because of how much he transformed the city. He built multiple bridges and highways and parks and recreational spaces, beaches - in the course of a few decades, he completely changed the city”

Sufjan Stevens

About This Quote

Source Interview: Discussing Urban Expressways, 2023

The author feels a duty to contextualize 1950s urban expressways, highlighting Robert Moses' massive influence on New York's shape.

In simple terms: A writer must acknowledge historical context and Moses' impact.

Key Takeaway

Include historical context when describing urban infrastructure.

Themes

urban planning history responsibility infrastructure legacy

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

explanatory critical

When to use this quote

  • city planning reports
  • academic essays
  • documentary scripts
  • heritage tours
  • policy analysis

Key Concepts

civic architecture urban transformation public works

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does acknowledging history affect your narrative?
  • What responsibilities do creators have to historical figures?
A Different Perspective

Moses' legacy is contested; not all view his changes positively.

4.8 out of 5 (3 ratings)

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