Do you talk about moving to a bigger, better city, with public transportation and a stronger arts community, with a pro sports team or a lot of movies filmed there?
And is this because you want to be able to better produce or better consume culture?
Because if the only reason you want to move to New York (or wherever you're moving) is to consume culture—see bigger plays, eat at fancier restaurants, live in cooler neighborhoods and hear more famous bands—I've got news for you: They don't want you there.
And if you want to move so that you can better produce—articles, novels, paintings, videos, afghans, whatever—first ask yourself, Why can't I do that where I am?
Your city needs you.
Why would you want to be a nobody in New York when you could be somebody right here?
If you're unsatisfied with your city's public transportation, local businesses, or arts scene, do something about it. Take the bus, even if it's less convenient than driving (which it will be). Start your own local business, or support existing ones. Contribute to the arts community, rather than expecting it to kowtow to your desires.
And if you don't feel equipped to do any of these things, use your money and resources to finance those who are.
Few things make me angrier than when people complain about all the things their city lacks. Do you realize how privileged and self-absorbed you sound when you say, "MARTA sucks"?
MARTA does suck. It sucks because people like you refuse to take it.
Is your vision for America one where New York is the only city—overcrowded, full of smog, and so expensive that only the elite class can afford it—and the rest of the country is suburbs?
If not, don't move there. Do something cool where you are, right now.
And watch this video where people in Portland tell you, "Don't move here."
Because if all the cool people in other cities move to Portland, 1) Portland will stop being cool, and 2) Other cities will never get cool.
Just like if all the cool people in Portland had moved to New York, Portland would still be some dry, boring town in a state that no one cares about.
This post is Part I. So before you freak out, read my post on Monday about the only good reason to move to a "better" city.
Image from rainking1978's photobucket.
