Sudha's Snack:
Money Should Grow On Trees…
but first, I Need a Tree

by Sudha Narasimhan

So, I have decided that I need to make more money.  Today on NPR I heard that to be considered middle class in NYC one has to make $75,000 a year. I am here to say that I do not make anything close to that, nor do I expect to, given that I am in the arts and I have only a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts.

Why does it take so much to be “middle class”?  Does this mean I am part of the working poor?

I’m dating myself as I say this, but back in the day, my mother was supporting our entire household with an income half of that aforementioned sum. Going out to eat was a luxury.  Many things that I have grown accustomed to in my lifestyle now would not even be available then. Granted, we were not living in NYC (and this was 20 something years ago), but this still begs the question- why is it so damn hard to live in NYC, and why can’t I be considered at least middle class?

In my 8 years of residence in NYC, I have definitely struggled financially, and I know I am not alone here. Does it make me angry to spend $10 on lunch? Sometimes. Do I get frustrated because there are days when I cannot go out because I am flat broke? Absolutely. But, here’s the thorn in my side: who gave me this sense of entitlement that I should be able to indulge as much as I have? Me! NYC is a wonderland of treats and splendor, and I want to play!!! Yes, I admit it!

In other parts of the US, most people cook at home, bring their lunch, and only go out to eat for special occasions. A lot of people think of chain restaurants as fine dining and Banana Republic as high fashion. I think NYC has made me a bit materialistic and a snob. Yes, I am being hard on myself, but it’s true- when I step out of this city and see my family, or visit friends in other cities, they do not care that there is this awesome new Italian restaurant in Chelsea or that the shops all have a particular designer’s line displayed. One can argue that NYC has enriched my palate, my sense of style, and my overall knowledge of culture and art, but some would say it has left me poor and devoid of realistic values. All I have to say is that I am very excited that Banana Republic is having a sale this week….