What’s the point of living in a city if it becomes invisible under the weight of nostalgia?

“Why would I bother describing someone in their 50s based on their childhood? It’s utterly irrelevant. Who cares if they were beautiful or smart when they were 10? We should focus on who they are now, not who they used to be. It’s absurd to cling to an outdated image of someone and expect it to be accurate.“

Similar dynamics can be seen when it comes to Alexandria – a city with a rich history and a complex present. Instead of acknowledging its present reality, we choose to escape to an idealized past. We hold onto an outdated version of the city and impose it on the present.

In analyzing the intricate tapestry of Alexandria’s social dynamics, it is imperative to delve into the city’s present reality rather than dwelling solely on nostalgic recollections of the past. It is not enough to envision Alexandria through the lens of its former glory; we must confront the stark challenges and opportunities that define the city in its current state. Amidst the complexity of this urban landscape, we are faced with various choices: seeking refuge in a more favorable environment, reconciling with the realities at hand, or retreating inward, nostalgically indulging in idealized versions of the past.

However, the latter approach is fraught with peril, for it perpetuates a stagnation of creativity and marginalizes the voices of those who inhabit the present. By merely consuming and reproducing romanticized notions of the past, we risk eroding the vitality of the contemporary city and alienating its inhabitants. In this pursuit, Alexandria may ultimately become an invisible city, disconnected from its essence and devoid of a collective sense of belonging.

It’s still fascinating how the past can shape our perceptions and understanding of someone or something. It’s a matter of perspective and personal inclination. Sometimes, we may hold onto an image of somethings from their earlier days, perhaps because we haven’t had the chance to see them grow or change…Other times, we may choose to remember only the aspects of them that resonate with us the most.