I am surprised by the lack of cynicism, particularly among the younger ones, of those who work in such fields.The television generation grew up in the insistent presence of hype, delights in much of it, and has no scruples about practicing it.Men and woman do their jobs professionally, and, like the pilots who from great heights bombed Hanoi, seem unmarked by it.They lead their real lives elsewhere, in the Village bars they are indistinguishable in dress or behavior from would-be artists, actors, and writers.The boundaries of “art for art’s sake” aren’t so rigid anymore; art itself is less sharply defined,and those whose paintings don’t sell do illustrations;those who can’ get acting jobs do commercials;those who are writing ambitious novels sustain themselves on the magazines.Besides, serious art often feeds on the popular these days, changing it with fond irony.In time the newcomers find or form their won worlds;Manhatten is many such words, huddled together but rarely interaction.I think this is what gives the city its sense of freedom.There are enough like you, whatever you are. And it isn’t as necessary to know anything about an apartment neighboror to worry about his judgment of you- as it is about someone with an adjoining yard.
