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That's the first thing you learn when you busk in the New York City subways: you immediately join the ranks of the marginalized, the unhinged prophets, the Christian shouters, the Hare Krishnas, the Jehovah's witnesses, the father-and-daughter kitaro team, the violinists playing for their sickly wives.
Tom Junod
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Busking in New York City connects artists with other marginalized individuals, reflecting shared struggles and voices.

This quote highlights the experience of busking, or performing in public spaces, specifically in the New York City subways, where musicians and performers become part of a larger community made up of marginalized individuals. It underscores the idea that these performers share not just their art but also a unique bond with others who are often overlooked and who express their own truths, hopes, and struggles in public spaces.

Themes

BuskingArtCommunityMarginalizationExpression

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a speech about the importance of public art in urban spaces.

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