TO ERIC: I said to a new neighbor I had met that I had lived in Chicago for several years before relocating to my present city. This new neighbor stated, “I’m sorry,” after glancing at me. I apologized for what I had said, and he turned to leave. Could you please clarify this?
A former resident of Chicago
Greetings, Chicagoan Unfortunately, as someone who enjoys Chicago every time I visit, I don’t think there is anything to be said here. Those who feel compelled to disparage entire cities should practice their speaking abilities. Take up a hobby, perhaps. It demonstrates a genuine ignorance of the size of the world. To write off a whole city is absurd. Writing off an entire block is foolish. It’s quite acceptable if you don’t want to reside anywhere. But to claim that it’s unsalvageable or that no one should live there? Whoa, I can’t fathom lacking creativity.
Questions can be sent to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or by mail at P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Subscribe to his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com and follow him on Instagram.)
Tribune Content Agency, LLC in 2025.
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