it goes by the second city but it’s definitely the first to have ever truly fascinated me. it’s evoked in me a certain feeling that, however familiar, i ironically could not place.
as i have put it once:
it’s like the face of a stranger that your mind had memorized but never had the chance to put a name on. there’s this feeling that you know it like the back of your hand, yet still is your biggest mystery.
and i have not figured out for sure whether the fascination stems from the bias of traveling solo — making one deeply immersed in and appreciative of the surroundings — or from the fact that the city is simply a standalone gem. i settled on probably, a healthy mix of both.
the only thing that i know for certain is that in the short period that i’ve solitarily graced its streets (and its waters) — i grew. in experience and memories. in confidence and self actualization. things i can back up with endless anecdotes.
here’s to many more of that chicago feeling 🍕
shaken, not stirred. 