The stranger is near and far at the same time - far enough away to be unknown, but close enough to get to know.
He is not connected to anyone so people let down their inhibitions.
The stranger has an objectivity to society - unbiased - so his opinion is important, however it could also be that it isnt important as he is not properly within the society so why should his opinion count?
Simmel says that there should be a stranger in every society to bring something new.
Having moved from home to Leeds, I myself would be considered a stranger. As I have 'wandered' before, this makes me a potential wanderer. My 'position' in Leeds is determined by the fact that I havent been here from the start and I 'import' qualities which can't stem from anyone who has not wandered.
thoughts?
ReplyDeleteAre you a 'stranger'?