Tangier is more New York than New York. ... Then you must see how alike the two places are. The life revolves wholly about the making of money. Practically everyone is dishonest. In New York you have Wall Street, here you have the Bourse. ... In New York you have the slick financiers, here the money changers. In New York you have your racketeers. Here you have your smugglers. And you have every nationality and no civic pride.
The quote from Paul Bowles' "Let It Come Down" suggests a striking similarity between Tangier and New York City, particularly in their focus on commerce and financial dealings. Both cities are portrayed as driven by a relentless pursuit of money, where dishonesty and a lack of civic pride abound. Bowles draws parallels between the financial hubs of Wall Street and the Bourse, highlighting the presence of unscrupulous characters in both locations.
Furthermore, he contrasts the figures associated with their respective underworlds; New York is known for its racketeers, while Tangier has its smugglers. The observation that both cities celebrate a diverse mix of nationalities but lack a sense of community pride points to a deeper commentary on urban life and the prevailing attitudes that prioritize profit over ethical conduct and collective identity.
