You’ve met the type – the answer to “How are you doing?” is invariably a serious “Busy busy,” always said with a very serious sense of self-importance, akin to the demanding schedule of the CEO of a multinational corporation. Often, these types of individuals find idleness to be frightful and sinful. Constant motion and activity provides great comfort and obviates the need to feel, play, or further explain one’s life. I grew up like that.
In Devil’s Playground, I wrote: “And then there is the busy busy ethic, a defining characteristic of our culture and particularly a place like New York, an ethic that basically says any and all busyness is good and is sufficient to justify one’s existence.”
For those who hold this ethic dear and need validation that others share their compulsion, a trip to Times Square will satisfy nicely. Here, day or night, 24/7/365, we will find all manner of activity and industry. A place where everyone is Busy Busy 🙂
More on Times Square: Eye Candy, Branding Gone Wild, Work and Play, National Drama Queen, Devil Ups the Ante, Let’s Have a Parade, Wake Up Call , Full Circle, Times Square Ball Drop, Density and Intensity, The Naked Cowboy
mmm… Times Square
I can only add “money money”)
Pavel – very true.
Brian, thanks fro the video of Times Square. As someone who has always wanted to visit, I love these little looks at the everyday life there.
Me too Cheri – The little video clips allow you to feel as though you are right there in NYC, even if it’s for a minute or two.
Ooh me too Cheri, Sally! Thanks Brian.
I lived in New York all of my life. Not in the city anymore though. I like all the signs and lights at night. I always feel like playing a musical or opera that I have whenever I see the city.
Hi Brian, stumbled upon this website looking for ones similar to mine, and so of course I love yours! As for this post, I do believe in what you said about the busy-busy-ethic. I know of some people who say it self-righteously, as if what I’m doing or pursuing in New York aren’t up to their standards. Glad to find someone who shares this opinion. Keep up the good work.
NYC is indeed busy busy! There is something for everyone, making it a great place to plan a trip to! If you are considering a trip to New York City, Family In New York is a must! They offer custom private tours and can create a tour of the city for you that is unique to your needs and interests! They also offer wheelchair accessible tours, and New York layover tours!