Getting Help

New Yorkers are known as a fast, unforgiving people. This is largely fair. We walk fast, talk fast, and are disinclined to let strangers get away with minor infractions. As Thornton Wilder put it, "Density of population increases irritability, lonesomeness, & a censorious view of the behavior of others." However.

There's a trick. Do you need help? Directions, information, advice? ASK. Ask, and you will find New Yorkers to be the most patient, instructive people in the world.

LES

It's a simple transaction: Indicate your need, and we will meet it. Not least because New Yorkers love to show off how much they know about New York, and how great it is.

If, instead, you choose to indicate your need through entirely passive means, you're on your own. Squint at the map all you want, no one will come to your aid. In New York, you're expected to take responsibility for yourself -- to own your actions.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Of course if you're fine with squinting at the map, there's no problem. Personally, I'd much rather muddle around under my own steam, figuring things out as I go. Nothing wrong with that. Just please, please don't get in anyone's way. Pull over to the side of the pavement, don't block doors or crosswalks, don't stop suddenly in confusion. Get in anyone's way, and you won't get help; you'll get a sharp elbow in the back.

Update: Actually, sometimes you will get help without asking for it. Like, if you're not in my way, but you're having a loud discussion with your friends about an issue that I can easily resolve... Imma jump in and solve it.
For example, this group of girls near the edge of Central Park today, trying to figure out which way was north. Their GPS wasn't helping, and NY is slanted enough that the 2pm sun only confused them further, so as I was walking by I just said "That way. [pointing] That way is north."

RECIPE: Waffles. Halve this, but use two eggs, and it's perfect for two people.