Have you ever noticed how funny it is watching people run for the train? It is a visual comedy.

The inner turmoil one expriences in that moment is manifest in the physicallity of a man in full suit NOT quite running for the train. The internal conflict:

  • If you run, you look like a dork, you could slip and fall and muddy your suit, you could fall off the platform, sweat through your new shirt.
  • If you don’t run you’ll be late.

Add to this the fact that you aren’t in running shoes and are carrying a bag that adds at least an addtional pound or two to every step. The end result is perculiar species of half-run visible only in these few precious seconds. The feet move quickly. The shoes pound. But the legs aren’t fully extended. The shoulders slump a little. And there is a clear and concerted effort not to let the head bounce.

Indeed, it is silly when you think about it, to run for a train. Even if you make it to work on time, you’ve lost a little piece of dignity that you just may never get back.