When applied to Chicago, the phrase “quiet side street” has an unconvincing ring. It suggests a calm, restful tranquility that is, in fact, irritatingly elusive. Hang around long enough on any block, and you’re bound to discover the truth about noise. You’ll hear the hubbub of a city that’s always breaking down and growing.
Part of the commotion comes from the incessant building—from the demolition, construction, and rehabbing that’s always on-going (real-estate being one of the great sources of wealth).
Beyond that are the noisy neighbors, the feuding cats, the jalopies out past midnight cruising. The el thunders along, and, overhead, the planes drone, stacked up on the low flight paths into O’Hare. Mornings bring garbage trucks, enormous semis with deliveries, and the first irritated driver blowing a horn. Summer nights throb with the sound of air conditioners, millions strong.
Despite some strides in recent years, Chicago continues to be one of America’s loudest cities. The density of urban life, and the big forces that drive it, can easily make an individual feel powerless. Still, I don’t really mind the noise; the silence of stasis would get on my nerves.
Harley says
Yes, I guess over the years I have gotten used to the many sounds of the city. One sound that makes me totally crazy, though, is when a car alarm goes off–especially after 8:00pm and sometimes it will continue on for a long time and, if one is unlucky enough, may go on for hours.
Celia says
Many a sleep has been spoilt that way. Fortunately, the use of that sort of car alarm seems to be waning.
Lori D says
After a while, it just becomes background noise that we don’t notice anymore. I grew up in a suburb that’s right in the path to O’Hare. The planes flew so low I could see people in their seats. I completely tuned it out over the years. Now, when I go home to visit and stay with Mom … yikes! I’m not used to the planes and they wake me early every morning while I’m there. Thanks for painting a picture of the noisy city with your words. Despite the noise, I miss the place. Just ordered Vienna hot dogs for a ton of shipping money, but it’s worth it for hubby’s b-day this weekend. 🙂
Celia says
Lori, you’re right–this explains how so many thousands of people can live near the el. Ears do become accustomed to the noise, and tune it out. The noise pollution around O’Hare has actually increased over the years, affecting people within a much wider radius than formerly. This is because the flight paths are lower and planes are allowed to follow one another more closely. I guess there is a new ordinance, though, that is supposed to control it. . . .
I hope you have a great birthday celebration with those hot dogs! If it were my husband, he would love it!!! You score!
Celia