"Those of Manhattan are the brokers on Wall Street and they talk of people who went to the same colleges; those from Queens are margin clerks in the back offices and they speak of friends who live in the same neighborhood"
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Jimmy Breslin's quote provides a concise yet profound observation of the socio-economic and cultural divisions within New York City, concentrating on the contrast in between Manhattan and Queens. In this contrast, Breslin highlights the stark differences in social circles and expert goals that are typically dictated by one's geographical and social roots.
"Those of Manhattan are the brokers on Wall Street and they broach people who went to the very same colleges" provides Manhattan as a center of power, privilege, and elite networks. Wall Street is emblematic of financial success and high-stakes service, recommending that those hailing from Manhattan are often part of prestigious circles. The emphasis on going to the exact same colleges highlights the function of academic pedigree in producing and keeping a network of influence and opportunity. In Manhattan, individual connections and one's alma mater can be critical in climbing the social and financial ladders. This world is competitive, selective, and insulated, typically viewed as a bastion of the upper class.
On the other hand, "those from Queens are margin clerks in the back offices and they speak of buddies who reside in the same neighborhood" shows a various socio-economic truth. Queens represents the working-class sector of the city, where individuals are most likely participated in more modest, albeit important, roles like margin clerks who support the trading activities of their Wall Street equivalents. The recommendation to speaking of good friends from the very same community highlights a community-oriented and localized social network, rather than one built around elite educational institutions. This reflects a more grounded and relatable social structure, where relationships are formed through shared experiences and region rather than institutional affiliations.
Overall, Breslin catches the dichotomy in between Manhattan's wealth and opportunity versus Queens' middle-class truth. His quote discreetly critiques the social structures that perpetuate these divides, stressing how one's environment affects their social connections, profession trajectories, and ultimately, their worldviews.
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