Noise is everywhere in America. Waitresses shout orders to the cook. Bus drivers shout at passengers. Checkin-in clerks bark: Next in line! Baristas at Starbucks shout: Conchita, your order's ready! {I prefer not to give them my real name.}
In "The Road to Little Dribbling," Bill Bryson reflects on the pervasive noise found throughout America. He describes a variety of everyday situations where loud communication is commonplace, such as waitstaff yelling orders, bus drivers addressing passengers, and clerks calling out for the next customer. This constant cacophony illustrates a culture where shouting has become a standard method of interaction.
Through his observations, Bryson highlights how this noise contributes to the bustling atmosphere of American life. Despite the overwhelming volume, he humorously hints at a personal preference for anonymity, revealing his reluctance to share his real name with baristas—symbolizing a desire for a quieter, more private existence amidst the noise. This duality captures both the vibrancy and the chaos of contemporary urban environments.
