Times Square Analysis

Can merely reading a book offer the truth about Times Square, to someone whose never actually been there? The book by Daniel Makagon, Where The Ball Drops: Days and Nights in Times Square, includes personal research and experiences on the reality of what goes on in Times Square. My thoughts and perceptions on the borough of Times Square have changed dramatically more than any other topic I’ve ever viewed. The history of Times Square very strongly is linked to why the city that never sleeps is one of the most successful tourist attractions in the world. My views, and thoughts on Times Square have changed dramatically over the course of this book. After absorbing in all of the information of presented through Makagon’s dissertation.

It is easy to fall into the trap of believing that Times Square has always been the magical place that it is today. This however is far from the reality, and truth of Times Square’s unique history. Makagon (2004) writes in his book, that city officials became increasingly aware of the importance of enriching the general atmosphere of Times Square. (p. 51). City officials wanted Times Square to be seen more than solely a place of crime, and a city full of porno theatres (Makagon, 2004, p. 51). How did Times Square go from a trashy city, to one of the most popular borough’s in the country? This incredible change is characterized by the term, “Disneyfication” (Makagon, 2004, p.50). Disneyfication turned Times Square from a “seedy porno district”, into a place where entertainment is described as, “family friendly” (Makagon, 2004, p.51). It appears this systematic change did wonders for the “city that never sleeps”. The city known for its Broadway shows, amazing restaurants, and the dazzling lights was once irrelevant in the country which is a under looked aspect to Times Square

The book points out that the insiders of New York architecturally designed the borough to have aesthetically pleasing lights which draw people into the city (Makagon, 2004, p.152.). Being in an aesthetically pleasing space that is described as “open” by Makagon allows for tourist to buy overpriced items almost without even realizing it (Makagon, 2004, p.153.). For example, the mouthwatering burger a five-star restaurant sells for thirty bucks, when the same burger for five dollars back at home. The genius business work in the city of Manhattan allows for the city to work the way it does, which is what Daniel Makagon attemps to convey through his book. This book would be perfect for a business class to read, so they can understand the complex behind the scenes action taken in order to make businesses (Time Square itself) work