I think a great city has to have something it is known for, that it is good for, perhaps its own cuisine (New Orleans?) or its own music, say Jazz or Pops by the Charles or its architecture. Its history needs to show, in older buildings or historical reconstructions, or plaques explaining what happened here (the redcoats fled from here along this route). Like the bones of the past sticking up into the present, I think of Rome in particular. A collection of artists, artist colonies, helps. Colorful outdoor markets or indoor ones with many specialty shops, help too. And I think that tolerance for variety of ethnicities helps too, with neighborhoods to explore, ethnic restaurants to taste, and a variety of holidays to celebrate. Universities and museums are often part of the picture.
All points well taken. Irene, I think there are too many folks who think that a city isn't a great city unless it has major league teams. I concur with your perspective. It's about having a sense of place, an identity that germinates pride, that has connectivity.
Thank you for sharing, Herb! I am glad you are still inspired by beautiful Boston. I was only there once for a long weekend over forty years ago. Fond memories!
I think a great city has to have something it is known for, that it is good for, perhaps its own cuisine (New Orleans?) or its own music, say Jazz or Pops by the Charles or its architecture. Its history needs to show, in older buildings or historical reconstructions, or plaques explaining what happened here (the redcoats fled from here along this route). Like the bones of the past sticking up into the present, I think of Rome in particular. A collection of artists, artist colonies, helps. Colorful outdoor markets or indoor ones with many specialty shops, help too. And I think that tolerance for variety of ethnicities helps too, with neighborhoods to explore, ethnic restaurants to taste, and a variety of holidays to celebrate. Universities and museums are often part of the picture.
All points well taken. Irene, I think there are too many folks who think that a city isn't a great city unless it has major league teams. I concur with your perspective. It's about having a sense of place, an identity that germinates pride, that has connectivity.
Thank you for sharing, Herb! I am glad you are still inspired by beautiful Boston. I was only there once for a long weekend over forty years ago. Fond memories!
Great essay. Thanks Herb
Thanks, Wayne. Much appreciated.