And so the heat came--by 11:00 A.M. I was in short sleeves. A piece of climate never seen before, so out of character with the weather of the last few days. The universe changed. What did it mean? I was sitting on a bench at Riverside Drive and 147th street, reading The Expectations, the novel written by Alex, the husband of my friend Sarah. Enjoying it, the story of a new ninth grader beginning his life at a very prestigious Boarding School in New England. Who he is friends with; what is happening in the life of his family back home, the whole ethos of the Boarding school for the wealthy. Still, the heat defined itself, later at Riverside and 83rd, watched the runners and the couples in their summer outfits---new clothing never seen before. How long will it last? Well, tomorrow is supposed to be only slightly cooler (around 75) and then Sunday reverts to the days of the past, as it dips into the 60's.
My first impulse was to try to get to Brooklyn-Berry Street between north 12th and Broadway is closed to traffic. That is my home "turf'---how many times did I walk that street as I came to and left South fourth. If only it had been open this morning---Jimmy, the great morning bartender waiting to give me a cup of coffee---but wait---it would have only been take out. Still, worth the trip. But today I had to settle for a morning trip to Broadway and 146th---to get a coffee from Hamiton's the place where I usually go before and after teaching at the library. Of course they only had take out as well, but the barista there made me feel very welcome.
Later, returned home and watched the full play Pipeline, presented at the Newhouse at Lincoln Center some years ago. A very strong and powerful play, dealing with black identity, black rage, social norms, etc. Beautifully acted, I stayed with it the whole time. First time in the social isolation days that i have been able to commit to following a full length play. More in the future? We will see, will
report soon.
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