Empire State Building, New York

I do not particularly care for New York, or rather, Manhattan. While New York encompasses more than just Manhattan, this was the area I explored, and it resonated with me less. This sentiment might be attributed to visiting before I developed a keener urban perspective, one that appreciates cityscapes differently. Alternatively, it could be due to insufficient time spent wandering Central Park, a place where I might have felt a stronger connection. Instead, I spent half a day at the Museum of Natural History, solely because a film had led me to believe it would be captivating. While interesting, it ultimately proved superfluous for my interests.

However, the primary reason for my limited fondness for Manhattan likely stems from the circumstances of my visit. I did not initially fly to New York, but rather to San Jose for a work assignment. Consequently, I took a “red-eye” flight from San Francisco (which I found far more appealing) at 1 AM, arriving in New York at 7 AM. While this appears to be a six-hour journey, the three-hour time difference means the actual flight duration is significantly shorter. Optimally, one might manage two or three hours of sleep; otherwise, one arrives utterly exhausted. The result was foreseeable: I boarded a tourist bus in Manhattan, settled into my seat, and promptly fell asleep. This characterized the initial portion of my visit.

During one of my excursions, I resolved to undertake something more substantial. I ascended – or rather, took the elevator – to the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building. January in New York is exceptionally cold, and at 373 meters above ground level, the chill is even more pronounced. However, the vista… the vista was entirely worthwhile. Since that time, I have significantly refined my photographic technique. Should I return, I would aim my lens further down towards the street to capture additional compelling angles, yet even the brief glimpse I captured here remains impressive.

During one of my excursions, I resolved to undertake something more substantial. I ascended – or rather, took the elevator – to the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building. January in New York is exceptionally cold, and at 373 meters above ground level, the chill penetrates even more deeply, particularly when the wind blows fiercely. However, the vista… the vista was worth every moment. I enjoy capturing 360-degree panoramas from tall structures, and there is nothing quite like standing at such an vantage point, endeavoring to encompass the entire city within a single, expansive frame. To date, this was the highest tower I had ascended, and the sensation of observing Manhattan from above, especially at night with lights glittering everywhere, is truly extraordinary. In 2008, this hobby of mine, crafting panoramic images by hand, was still in its nascent stages.  Since then, I have significantly refined my technique. Should I return, I would aim my lens further down towards the street to capture additional compelling angles, yet even the brief glimpse I captured here remains impressive.

The Empire State Building is not merely another skyscraper; it stands as a cultural and historical icon. Erected during the Great Depression, it was completed in a record 14 months and retained the title of the world’s tallest building for decades. However, its enduring global renown is perhaps most significantly attributed to the scene in the celebrated 1933 film where King Kong scaled its facade in a desperate evasion of attacking aircraft. The image of the colossal gorilla clinging to the building’s summit has since become one of cinema’s most iconic moments.

Subsequently, I proceeded to one of New York’s most iconic landmarks, and indeed, perhaps of the entire United States: the Statue of Liberty. Scarcely anyone is unfamiliar with her imposing figure, characterized by her solemn expression, the crown adorning her head, and the torch she proudly raises skyward. This is the image frequently depicted on countless postcards, book covers, and New York posters—the universally recognized perspective.

However, how many have paused to consider the statue’s appearance from the reverse side? From behind, this monumental figure acquires an additional dimension. Beyond the heavy robes billowing in the wind, a single, albeit significant, detail captured my attention: her right leg. She does not stand in absolute stillness but rather lifts one leg, as if in the midst of motion. Some interpret this as a symbol of liberation and embarking on a new journey, while others perceive the posture as a declaration of defiance. Regardless, this perspective often receives insufficient attention, yet it undeniably imbues the renowned statue with additional profound meaning.