I would like to begin by apologizing for the extended absence. You see, I have taken to using the free wireless network that only a classy establishment like McDonald's could possibly provide. As a result, my infrequent Internet usage (I don't have access at my house) has made writing blogs slightly less convenient. Despite this, I am committed to continuing the tradition that I started in Japan and I look forward to the possible new material that life in Moscow is absolutely capable of providing. So without further ado, I give to you my first extensive blog from the heart of the former Soviet Union.Russia has not changed much from my last stay here. The city is still beautiful, the people remain slightly intimidating, and I'm kept constantly busy with school work which seems to be only slightly valuable. In any event, after 23 years of rural life in both the United States and Japan, it's been refreshing to experience an urban atmosphere. With virtually every form of human achievement at my finger tips, its hard to refrain from forsaking my training course, and indulging in the privileges of city life. While it is easy to cite numerous cultural, architectural, and historical attractions that make Moscow unique, there is one well known feature of the city which encapsulates all of these while at the same time remaining incredibly useful. Of course I'm referring to the world famous Moscow Metro.
Many cities have subway systems. New York, London, and Tokyo all support extensive underground services which make the furthest reaches of their limits accessible. Despite this, none of them are capable of attaining the sheer beauty, efficiency, and affordability of Moscow's metro. Beginning in the 1930's, the first stations were intended to be "underground palaces" celebrating t
he victory of socialism. Designed and constructed under the watchful eye of Joseph Stalin, the early stations were built using materials from many different areas of the Soviet Union. Special stations were decorated with mosaics, statues, and marble columns, while many of the other stations were adorned with just as impressive stars, socialist imagery(in the form of workers doing things) and (naturally) the hammer and sickle. Recent stations have kept to the model(minus the communist undertones) and all stimulate a level of anticipation upon first viewings. The metro's efficiency and price also play a huge part in its appeal. Since trains come (on average) every 90 seconds, its easy to arrive at anytime and be sure that you will soon be whisked away to your destination. This coupled with the metro's dirt cheap fares (one ride anywhere in the city costs about $1.10), help make it easier for me to indulge in inner-city travel, and as a result opens the door to many sections of the city I may not have chosen to visit.
he victory of socialism. Designed and constructed under the watchful eye of Joseph Stalin, the early stations were built using materials from many different areas of the Soviet Union. Special stations were decorated with mosaics, statues, and marble columns, while many of the other stations were adorned with just as impressive stars, socialist imagery(in the form of workers doing things) and (naturally) the hammer and sickle. Recent stations have kept to the model(minus the communist undertones) and all stimulate a level of anticipation upon first viewings. The metro's efficiency and price also play a huge part in its appeal. Since trains come (on average) every 90 seconds, its easy to arrive at anytime and be sure that you will soon be whisked away to your destination. This coupled with the metro's dirt cheap fares (one ride anywhere in the city costs about $1.10), help make it easier for me to indulge in inner-city travel, and as a result opens the door to many sections of the city I may not have chosen to visit.In conclusion, I can't say enough about the Moscow Metro. It truly is a delight, but of course all of these ravings might be the result of my lack of an extensive public transportation system during any part of my youth. 
In any event, the Moscow Metro is truly one of the city's most acclaimed treasures and no visit the city would be complete with out at least one ride. Of course, many of you may be wondering about more than just the stations and the price. Well, what can I say? I don't won't to spoil the little things that give the metro so much character. After all, would you react positively to occasional garbage, slippery (from dust) floors, or drunk Russians if I didn't allow you to discover them? Probably not! Of course, if you do see or experience those things, its best just to keep your head up. Only after rising above the inherent unpleasantness of reality can it be possible to fully appreciate the fantasy of perfection originally intended by the metro's designers. Frankly, that's an illusion I'm willing to occasionally accept.
In any event, the Moscow Metro is truly one of the city's most acclaimed treasures and no visit the city would be complete with out at least one ride. Of course, many of you may be wondering about more than just the stations and the price. Well, what can I say? I don't won't to spoil the little things that give the metro so much character. After all, would you react positively to occasional garbage, slippery (from dust) floors, or drunk Russians if I didn't allow you to discover them? Probably not! Of course, if you do see or experience those things, its best just to keep your head up. Only after rising above the inherent unpleasantness of reality can it be possible to fully appreciate the fantasy of perfection originally intended by the metro's designers. Frankly, that's an illusion I'm willing to occasionally accept. (P.S. David, I'm glad to hear that you is still reading my entries. I have noticed that your blog has stopped altogether. I hope everything is going well in the U.K. and of course, if you ever decide to come back to Russia, (which might not happen due to your love of it the first time) I would be happy to meet you and possibly open your eyes to its many positive aspects!)
2 comments:
Ric! I'm glad to hear the dead man have a new member. Its good to know that Adams will be able to fit in so easy due to the fact that he already owns a coffin! Everyone of the "Dead Men" are constantly trying to steal his bed.
haha...this is a great way to communicate! i'm glad you're in a country that understands fine dining aka mickey d's. as opposed to orange glazed squid penis and cucumber soda.
LADIES,
ric
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