This 1993 New Yorker article profiles Abe Green, a man who spent over four decades as a fixture at the Beverly Hills Hotel pool. Green, a self-made millionaire, established a daily ritual of holding court poolside, becoming a peculiar part of the hotel's landscape. The piece explores Green's evolving relationship with the hotel, from his early days as a welcomed guest to his later years marked by increasing eccentricity and strained relations with management. It paints a portrait of a man seeking community and purpose in a glamorous yet ultimately transient environment, capturing a specific era of Hollywood history and the changing dynamics of the legendary hotel.
John McPhee's "The Pinball Philosophy" explores the world of competitive pinball through the lens of Roger Sharpe, a top-ranked player in 1970s New York City. The piece delves into the intense focus, strategy, and almost mystical approach Sharpe takes to the game, highlighting the nuanced skills involved beyond mere luck. It contrasts his zen-like calm and calculated nudges with the frenetic energy of pinball parlors, ultimately portraying pinball not as a mindless pastime, but as a demanding game of skill requiring precision, anticipation, and a deep understanding of the machine's mechanics. Sharpe's pursuit of mastery reveals a unique subculture where dedicated players strive for perfect games and fleeting moments of control in a world of chaos and flashing lights.
HN users largely enjoyed McPhee's writing style, praising its evocative descriptions and engaging narrative. Several commenters shared personal anecdotes about pinball, reflecting on its enduring appeal and the unique focus it demands. Some discussed the cultural and historical context of pinball, including its past association with gambling and its resurgence as a hobby. A few users expressed interest in the technical aspects of pinball machine design and operation. The overall sentiment was positive, with many commenters appreciating the rediscovery of this older article. A couple noted the philosophical connections McPhee makes, linking pinball to broader life lessons about skill, chance, and persistence.
In March 1965, Selma, Alabama became the focal point of the fight for voting rights. After a local activist was killed during a peaceful protest, Martin Luther King Jr. led a march from Selma to Montgomery to demand federal intervention. Facing violent resistance from state troopers, the initial march, "Bloody Sunday," was brutally suppressed. A second attempt was aborted, and finally, after federal protection was granted, thousands completed the five-day march to the state capital. The events in Selma galvanized national support for voting rights and directly contributed to the passage of the Voting Rights Act later that year.
HN commenters discuss the historical context of the Selma march, highlighting the bravery of the protestors facing violent opposition. Some note the article's detailed depiction of the political maneuvering and negotiations surrounding the events. Others lament the slow pace of societal change, drawing parallels to ongoing struggles for civil rights. Several commenters share personal anecdotes or related historical information, enriching the discussion with firsthand accounts and further context. A few commenters also point out the importance of remembering and learning from such historical events.
Summary of Comments ( 53 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43186050
Hacker News users discuss the intriguing life of Abe Green, the subject of the New Yorker article. Several commenters express fascination with Green's dedication to a singular, seemingly mundane routine, spending decades poolside. Some question his motivations and mental state, pondering whether it represents a life well-lived or a form of obsessive escapism. Others romanticize his existence, viewing it as a unique pursuit of personal happiness, unburdened by societal expectations. A few commenters note the piece's portrayal of a bygone era of Hollywood glamour and the changing face of Los Angeles. There's also a short thread discussing the hotel itself and its history.
The Hacker News post linking to the 1993 New Yorker article, "The Man Who Spent Forty-Two Years at the Beverly Hills Hotel Pool," has generated a modest number of comments, primarily focusing on the eccentric character of Swifty Lazar, the Hollywood agent who is the subject of the piece.
Several commenters express fascination with Lazar's unusual life and relentless networking, even by the standards of Hollywood. They highlight his dedication to being at the pool, painting a picture of a man wholly consumed by his work and the pursuit of deals. One commenter notes Lazar's seemingly paradoxical nature, appearing both incredibly successful and deeply unhappy or unfulfilled.
Some discussion revolves around the bygone era of Hollywood dealmaking that Lazar embodied, contrasting it with the present day. Commenters remark on the more "genteel" (or at least less overtly crass) nature of business dealings in that time, though acknowledging the ever-present undercurrent of ambition and manipulation.
A few commenters mention the piece's portrayal of the Beverly Hills Hotel itself, reminiscing about its iconic status and the aura of glamour surrounding it. One commenter shares a personal anecdote about encountering Lazar at the hotel, corroborating the image of him as a constantly working, highly connected individual.
There's a brief thread discussing Lazar's apparent lack of genuine friendships, with speculation about whether his relentless focus on business left room for meaningful personal connections.
Overall, the comments paint a picture of intrigued readers, drawn in by the story of an unusual character in a fascinating setting. They reflect on the changing nature of Hollywood, the allure of the Beverly Hills Hotel, and the potential pitfalls of a life entirely dedicated to professional pursuits. While not a large number of comments, they offer a thoughtful and engaging response to the article.