[ The uncharted identity with the limitless possibilities is one of the distinctive qualities of urban living, a liberatory state for those who come to emancipate themselves from family and community expectation, to experiment with subculture and identity. It is an observer's state, cool, withdrawn, with senses sharpened, a good state for anybody who needs to reflect or create. In small doses melancholy, alienation and introspection are among life's most refined pleasures. ]
quote from R. Solnit: "Wanderlust - a history of walking", p. 186
