"In New York one lives in the moment rather more than Socrates advised, so that at a party or alone in your room it will always be difficult to guess at the long term worth of anything"

This quote by Harold Brodkey talks to the idea of living in the present minute. He recommends that in New York, people tend to focus on the present moment more than Socrates recommended. This indicates that people in New York are more likely to focus on the instant satisfaction of a situation, rather than thinking about the long-term ramifications. This can be seen in the context of a party or perhaps when alone in one's space. In these circumstances, it can be tough to figure out the long-term worth of anything. This quote talks to the idea that in New York, individuals are more likely to prioritize today moment over the future.