Point A: William and Anita Newman Library

Quote: “I am of old and young, of the foolish as much as the wise” – Song of Myself

Explanation: This quote immediately made me think of the library. I recall moments where I’d do nothing except take a nap or throw paper airplanes to my friends. I felt young, childish. However, I did feel old and wise when it came down to finals week, where I’d study the material intensely without breaking stride.

Point B: Union Square Park

Quote: “Though, I am very happy at the moment, I am a little concerned about the future. Hence! I’m distressed.” – The Journey to the West

Explanation: Union Square Park is where I had a great time hanging out with my friends. It was nothing special but it was calm, fun, and full of joy. I was happy. Just like the monkey though, I worried about the future. For a split second I thought of how when that moment in Union Square ended, so did that happiness I was feeling. I couldn’t help thinking of the fact that everything and there was nothing to stop it. Thus, for a fraction of a second I was “distressed.”

Point C: My Home (Queens)

Quote:

“I think I could turn and live with animals, they are so placid and self-contain’d,

I stand and look at them long and long.

They do not sweat and whine about their condition,

They do not lie awake in the dark and weep for their sins,

They do make me sick discussing their duty to God,

Not one is dissatisfied, not one is demented with the mania of owning things,

Not one is respectable or unhappy over the whole earth.”

– Song of Myself

Explanation: Often when I look at my cat or dog, I feel envious. They are unaware of the problems human beings have to face whether it be a global problem or a personal problem. To me this quote puts into words what I feel when I look at either of my pets and think “I wish I could be a cat/dog.” Without any worries or cares, and quietly happy is what I want to be.