New York Calling

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New York City in the 1970s was a vibrant, chaotic landscape, home to iconic films and cultural movements, where artists thrived amidst crime and decay. Fast-forward thirty years, and the city appears transformed into a glamorous metropolis with soaring real estate prices. However, this polished version raises questions about the loss of the gritty, affordable city of the past. New York Calling delves into the unrefined essence of the city, exploring its five boroughs and the interconnected realms of politics, crime, and culture, all while maintaining a balanced perspective devoid of romanticism or cynicism. Acclaimed historian Marshall Berman and journalist Brian Berger curate a diverse array of writers and photographers who share their insights on the city’s evolution. John Strausbaugh discusses the shift from Uptown to Downtown, while Tom Robbins reflects on the mayors who shaped this transformation. Margaret Morton documents the homeless experience, and Robert Atkins offers a personal view of the city’s gay culture amid the AIDS crisis. Contributors like Anthony Haden-Guest and John Yau provide insider perspectives on the art scene, while others recount their experiences in the local rock and jazz communities. Daily life in New York is vividly depicted through the eyes of Luc Sante, Jean Thilmany, and Richard Meltzer, among others, who capture the city's unique character. New York Calling ultimately highlights the chang