After nearly five years living in New York City, i have to admit i do not venture out to Brooklyn enough at all. Yes, i have heard some nice comments of how the neighborhoods have changed and have seen multiple advertisements of the lofty yet affordable condos that have sprout around the last few years, but somehow i have not found too many excuses to explore Brooklyn other than the occasional meals or art events in Williamsburg.
When my friend Joe invited me to visit his new four story townhouse he just bought in Clinton Hill, i seized the opportunity for the Brooklyn tour. I should not be surprise how much more more more space you can get once you cross the bridges. A townhouse is an impossible dream asset in Manhattan, but yet can actually be a reality out in Brooklyn. They are just a beacon of class and beauty, both architecturally inside and out. As the car drove passed rows of these gems around Forte Green and Park Slope, i am amazed how beautiful these neighborhoods and their hippie residents are. There is a sense of peace and independence that defines Brooklynites, almost like "Fuck Manhattan, Brooklyn is where real people lives". And this is so true, how can any non-conformist afford to live in Manhattan anymore?
And then came the question. Why should i kill my self trying so hard to buy that small condo in Manhattan when i can get a huge glass loft with a killing view here in Brooklyn? And then i realized i should really kill myself because i have allow myself to become the chelsea boy cliche. I have been chasing things. Things that are conforming. And for a moment, i can't help but wondered, how did i get here.....who am i anyway? Chelsea boy pretentious muscles or free spirit bohemian funk?
