I have been utterly shocked twice in the last few days at the views of a couple of New Yorkers (completely independent, I might add). I suppose the fact that we're in a resoundingly blue state that ranks fourth from an IQ standpoint gives me more of an aspirational view than otherwise might be the case. When this view is challenged, it can be quite shocking.
One view was that all black people should live in the same neighbourhood, congregate if you like. Jews do, so why not black people? Interesting point, and one worth airing on Fox, no doubt. The other was a reference to Aids as "the gay disease". This still makes me shudder: if this is the view in American blue states, then the plight of Africa on this front is so much more desperate.
Living in New York has its benefits though. Listening to Petula Clark's Downtown, you can't help but grin (at least I couldn't on the way to work this morning). The way in which the song articulates the city's offerings is second to none, and her British accent, particularly on the words "shows" and "close" lends even greater empathy on my part. It can't help but kick your morning off to a wonderful start. And today's Friday too!
