George Gershwin - Rhapsody in Blue

I've always felt this piece was associated with New York City and aside from being a beautiful song out right, it seems to illustrate the hopefulness and grace of the American experience. Some phrases are frantic, others are calm, some seem innocent and playful while others are mature and serious. Portions are happy, while others emote sadness. At times it is a whisper that rises to bellowing joy.
Unlike any other place I've lived, New York is animated with all of these emotions and the city has triggered them all in me just by virtue of physically being here. When I think of the destruction on Sept. 11, I think of the hope that created this city and country, not the evil that tried to tear it down. I think of the people who believe in our continued experience, rather than the misanthropes who do not believe it should exist. I am saddened by the lives that were lost, but encouraged by the ones who remember those lives.

Andrew Meissner