The Yellow Suitcase by L.W. Clark

Author:L.W. Clark
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: BookBaby
Published: 2021-06-30T17:55:48+00:00

SEVENTEEN

March 1997, Manhattan

Silvia and I now had different work schedules. When I went to Brooklyn, I could only see her at night when she came home after work. I’d wait impatiently for her so we could sit in our favorite place in the kitchen to chat before going to sleep. But soon I wanted to start exploring on my day off before seeing Sylvia, so she showed me how to use the subway map to get around Manhattan. I was desperate to visit Manhattan and walk on those beautiful, crowded, lively streets.

My first stop was Times Square. I stepped out onto the street but couldn’t move for a while. Everything was moving fast—except me. People, lights, cars, buses. The crowds and sounds made me dizzy. I was astonished by the energy. As I was standing in the middle of the city, I sensed some kind of power that made me feel stronger, and I was so grateful. I walked straight north on Broadway, taking it all in.

These streets are dirty, crowded and noisy, but no one seems to care. They just go about their business, walking quickly to wherever. Look at these tall, beautiful buildings with large windows right next to some sleazy looking places with signs that say peepshow, with large XXXs everywhere. What does that mean? Oh, live nude girls. Interesting. How about all these men dressed in suits and ties hurrying past a man in ragged clothes, standing and muttering something. What strange contrasts. Looking down the streets I see theaters with big signs about the shows that are playing, while street musicians and dancers perform for some change. It’s such a pleasure being in this city, with its crowds and interesting people. I like every single person I see. They each have their unique style and personality. There’s the Ed Sullivan Theater. I’ve heard of that. I’ve never heard of David Letterman though. Must be someone important to have his name on the theater.

As I continued walking north, the city became calmer, with fewer people on the streets and what looked like either apartment or office buildings. I was amazed by the architecture of so many buildings. Each had its own character. They were different but compatible. On the ground floors were boutique shops, cafes or restaurants.

These high-rise buildings make me feel high and strong—like them. I’ve never seen so many stores, cafes and restaurants, all right next to each other, and all crowded with people. I wonder what’s going on inside them? Next time I’m here, I’m going in.

I reached the corner of Broadway and 59th street and just stood there for a while, looking at a statue in the middle of a traffic circle as the cars buzzed by. Across the way I saw an entrance to a park.

“Excuse me,” I asked a well-dressed man as he rushed past me.

“Yes,” he said as he stopped.

“What is this area?” I asked, pointing to the statue and then at the park.

“This? This is Columbus Circle, and that’s Central Park.

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