Where in Chicagoland Are You Really From? A Deep Dive into Cross Streets
So, you're from Chicago. Cool story, bro. Everyone in Chicagoland is, apparently. But let's get specific. Like, really specific. We're talking cross streets, people. Because let's face it, saying you're from "Chicago" is like saying you're from "Europe." It's vague, and it makes us question if you actually know the city.
The Fine Art of Cross Street Specificity
Now, I'm not saying you need to know the exact latitude and longitude of your birthplace. But knowing your cross streets is like the Chicagoan equivalent of a handshake. It's a way of saying, "Hey, I actually know this city, and I'm not just pretending."
For example, saying "I'm from Chicago" is like saying "I'm from the United States." It's true, but it's not very helpful. But saying "I'm from Irving Park, around Addison and Kedzie" is like saying "I'm from New York City, near Times Square." Suddenly, we have a much better idea of where you're coming from.
The Cross Street Conundrum
But let's be honest, cross streets can be a minefield. There's the classic "I'm from close to..." which is code for "I have no idea." And then there's the "Oh, you know, right by that new taco place" which, while helpful for finding tacos, doesn't exactly pinpoint your location.
So, how do you navigate this cross street conundrum? Well, first, you need to accept that your answer might reveal more about you than you intended. Are you a North Sider, a South Sider, or somewhere in between? Do you prefer tacos or deep dish? These are the important questions.
The True Test of a Chicagoan
Ultimately, the ability to accurately state your cross streets is the true test of a Chicagoan. It's like a secret handshake that only locals understand. So, next time someone asks you where you're from, don't just say "Chicago." Give them a cross street. Impress them with your deep knowledge of the city. And most importantly, have fun with it!
How to...
- How to impress a Chicagoan: Know their neighborhood and casually drop a relevant cross street into conversation.
- How to avoid sounding like a tourist: Learn the major north-south and east-west streets.
- How to find the best deep dish pizza: Ask a local for their favorite spot and its cross streets.
- How to navigate the CTA: Understand the major 'L' lines and their stops in relation to cross streets.
- How to survive a Chicago winter: Layer up and know the cross streets of your favorite indoor spots.
